The story of the Algerian Front de Liberation Nationale’s struggle to gain freedom from French colonial rule, seen through the eyes of a petty criminal who rises to prominence within the resistance movement. Shot on the streets of Algiers documentary style, the film pulsates with raw realism and serves as a compelling case study in modern warfare, one which stands as one of the most influential political films in history.

Reviews

‘A riveting reconstruction of the struggle for independence in mid-50s Algiers, its pseudo-documentary style still feels as headline-fresh as its content.’
★★★★★
Matthew Leyland, BBC

‘Brilliantly directed set-pieces and remarkable thronging crowd scenes make the film a masterpiece; the ominous familiarity of its subject makes it a must-see.’
★★★★★
James Christopher, The Times