The Battle of Algiers

The Algerian Liberation Front starts in 1954 a rebellion against the country’s French governors. It turns into an all-out war, fought in Algiers’ streets and markets. Terrorism and torture become everyday weapons in the bloody fight that finally results in Algeria’s declaration of independence in 1962. Gillo Pontecorvo’s masterful The Battle of Algiers is considered the best political film ever. Employing a grainy newsreel aesthetic, he paints a frighteningly authentic portrait of the war.

This film was Oscar-nominated for Best Foreign Film, Best Direction and Best Original Screenplay. It won many awards in Europe as well, including the prestigious Golden Lion in Venice. ma