"Beau Travail" is a 1999 French film directed by Claire Denis. The story is loosely inspired by the novella "Billy Budd" by Herman Melville and follows a group of French Foreign Legion soldiers stationed in Djibouti. The film explores themes of masculinity, camaraderie, and the complexities of military life through the eyes of a sergeant named Galoup.
The narrative is characterized by its poetic visuals and minimal dialogue, focusing on the physicality and discipline of the soldiers' daily routines. The film's title translates to "Good Work," reflecting the beauty found in their rigorous training and the emotional undercurrents that arise within the group.