Amid the mud and horror of Belgian trench warfare during the First World War, soldiers Pierre and Francis discover an unexpected source of connection and meaning through theatrical performances staged for their fellow troops, often cross-dressing to play the roles of wives and mothers. As their bond deepens into a forbidden, tender love story, the film interrogates traditional notions of heroism and cowardice, developed by director Lukas Dhont and co-writer Angelo Tijssens from historical research uncovering rare, lasting queer romantic connections formed on the front lines. The film premiered in Cannes' main competition, where it won the Prix du Cinéma Positif and its two leads jointly won Best Actor. A devastating, historically grounded war drama that finds tenderness amid unimaginable horror, Dhont's meticulous craft and two extraordinary lead performances earning the film's Cannes accolades in full.