The Battle of Algiers

1966 • 120 minutes

About this movie

One of the most influential political films in history, The Battle of Algiers, by Gillo Pontecorvo, vividly re-creates a key year in the tumultuous Algerian struggle for independence from the occupying French in the 1950s. As violence escalates on both sides, children shoot soldiers at point-blank range, women plant bombs in cafés, and French soldiers resort to torture to break the will of the insurgents. Shot on the streets of Algiers in documentary style, the film is a case study in modern warfare, with its terrorist attacks and the brutal techniques used to combat them. Pontecorvo’s tour de force has astonishing relevance today.

Ratings and reviews

It's a sad but fascinating history of the battle for Algiers. It's disappointing that so many lost their lives, but they created the opportunity for Algiers to gain their independence. The producers were great at capturing the emotions on both sides.

A classic! Really just excellent in every way.

Fantastic film showcasing the struggle for independence against a colonial oppressor.