The more realistic approach to life-or-death situations reflects "a different generation, and a different generation's approach, " says Jonathan Sehring, president of Sundance Selects, the film's U.S. distributor.

WSJ: 'Declaration of War': Snubbed by the Oscars, Loved by the French

Some in the movie industry have argued that if audiences can watch a movie at home first they won't bother going to the theater, which Mr. Sehring disputes.

WSJ: Independent Films Increasingly Rely on Video on Demand

"France is the only country where it is a major scandal if one of their movies doesn't get nominated, " says Mr. Sehring, who timed the U.S. release to coincide with the Academy's announcement of the nominees.

WSJ: 'Declaration of War': Snubbed by the Oscars, Loved by the French