🎬 The Premise
Released in 2018, 1958: Those Who Said No enters the Documentary genre with a narrative focused on
On October 4, 2018, France celebrated the 60th anniversary of the Fifth Republic.
Under the direction of Philippe Saada, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
🎭 Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Philippe Saada, Pierre Pflimlin, Raoul Salan.
The chemistry between the leads drives the emotional core of the movie, making the stakes feel genuine.
🎥 Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, 1958: Those Who Said No offers a
visually stunning presentation. The cinematography
uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone.
The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
🌍 Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, 1958: Those Who Said No resonates with current
cultural themes in the Documentary space.
It effectively mirrors local sentiment while maintaining a global appeal, a rare feat in recent releases.
📺 Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of January 2026, 1958: Those Who Said No is available in theaters worldwide.
For streaming audiences in the US, UK, and India, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
Don't miss the high-definition experience provided by premium large format (PLF) screenings.
📖 Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of 1958: Those Who Said No centers on a unique premise within the Documentary landscape.
On October 4, 2018, France celebrated the 60th anniversary of the Fifth Republic. It is a republic born in the throes of the Algerian War and one which—from the day it was founded by General de Gaulle until the presidency of a very Jupiterian Emmanuel Macron—has been assailed as a “Republican monarchy” by partisans of a more assertive parliamentarian state. By revisiting the struggle of those who dared oppose the new regime — only to suffer a crushing defeat on September 28, 1958, when they were barely able to garner 20% of the vote against the constitutional text — this film shines a powerful new light on the origins of the Fifth Republic and its consequences for the next 60 years. It is a constitutional debate that planted the seeds for a complete upheaval of the French political landscape, on the left in particular, and set the country in motion toward what would be called the Union of the Left.
The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 2018 cinema will find satisfying and robust.
💡 Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of 1958: Those Who Said No has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the
triumph of the protagonist over internal conflicts.
Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a 1958: Those Who Said No sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
📝 Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for 1958: Those Who Said No (2018): with an audience rating of 8/10, the reception has been acclaimed.
It is a must-watch for fans of Documentary, TV Movie, History cinema who appreciate attention to detail.