DVD Movie Review, "The Battle of Algiers"

[Mark Heide]

This is a 3 DVD set that includes the movie on one and documentaries on the the others. The movie was made in 1966 and is based on actual events from a book written by FLN member Saadi Yacef. Film was directed by Gillo Pontecorvo and is in French and Arabic with English Subtitles. The film is in black and white and had me glued to my seat. If you are interested in watching an exciting film watch this re-released gem from the late 60s. Gillo Ponteorvo liked using non actors for the film, and most of them are, but he pulls it off to give the film a realistic feel. Movie was filmed in Algiers and tells the story from a leftist point of view, but kind of tell the story in a truthful manner. I highly recommend seeing this flick. Note that, the trailer for the movie claims that this film was required viewing for Pentagon officials. After you watch you will know why.

Happy viewing. I give it four stars. A must see.

Mark