Detailed Summary
Introduction and Setting
The Battle of Algiers (Italian: La battaglia di Algeri) is a 1966 Italian-Algerian historical war film directed by Gillo Pontecorvo and written by Franco Solinas. The film stars Jean Martin, Saadi Yacef, and Brahim Haggiag. It dramatizes the Algerian War (1954-1962) against French colonial rule in North Africa, focusing on the events of the Battle of Algiers, a key phase in the war.
The Story Unfolds
The FLN’s Insurrection
The film opens with the capture of Ali La Pointe (Brahim Haggiag), a key leader of the National Liberation Front (FLN), by French paratroopers. The narrative then flashes back to 1954, showing Ali’s recruitment into the FLN. The FLN begins organizing resistance against French colonial forces, employing guerrilla tactics and acts of terrorism to incite an uprising in the Casbah, Algiers’ native quarter.
Escalation of Violence
The film depicts various tactics used by the FLN, including bombings and assassinations, aimed at both French military personnel and Algerian collaborators. In response, the French authorities enforce curfews and conduct mass arrests. The violence escalates as both sides engage in a brutal cycle of retribution. The film portrays the human cost of this conflict, highlighting the suffering of civilians caught in the crossfire.
The Climax and Resolution
The French Counterinsurgency
Colonel Mathieu (Jean Martin), a composite character based on real French military leaders, is brought in to crush the insurgency. Using torture and intelligence-gathering, Mathieu’s paratroopers dismantle the FLN’s network, capturing or killing its leaders. The climax of the film is the siege of the Casbah, where Ali La Pointe and his comrades make their last stand.
The Aftermath
Though the French succeed in suppressing the insurgency in Algiers by 1957, the film concludes with scenes from 1960, showing renewed and widespread uprisings across Algeria. The persistent struggle ultimately leads to Algeria gaining independence in 1962. The film ends on a poignant note, emphasizing that while the Battle of Algiers was lost by the FLN, the larger war for independence was ultimately won.
Movie Ending
The Battle of Algiers ends with the French military’s tactical victory in suppressing the FLN in Algiers, but it also foreshadows the eventual success of the broader Algerian independence movement. The film emphasizes the resilience and determination of the Algerian people.
Post-Credits Scene
There are no post-credits scenes in The Battle of Algiers.
Type of Movie
The Battle of Algiers is a historical war film and political drama that combines elements of documentary-style realism with narrative filmmaking, focusing on themes of colonialism, resistance, and the ethics of revolutionary violence.
Cast
- Jean Martin as Colonel Mathieu
- Brahim Haggiag as Ali La Pointe
- Saadi Yacef as El-Hadi Jafar (based on himself, Yacef was a real FLN leader)
- Samia Kerbash as One of the female bombers
- Tommaso Neri as Captain
Film Music and Composer
The film’s score was composed by Ennio Morricone, whose music enhances the tension and emotional gravity of the narrative.
Filming Locations
The Battle of Algiers was filmed on location in Algiers, using the actual streets and buildings where many of the events took place. This added to the film’s authenticity and documentary-like feel.
Awards and Nominations
The Battle of Algiers received numerous prestigious awards and nominations, including:
- Academy Awards: Nominated for Best Foreign Language Film, Best Director (Gillo Pontecorvo), and Best Original Screenplay.
- Golden Lion: Won at the Venice Film Festival (1966).
- BAFTA Awards: Nominated for Best Film from Any Source.
Behind the Scenes Insights
- The film was produced with the assistance of the Algerian government, and many former FLN members, including Saadi Yacef, played roles in the film or served as advisors.
- The use of non-professional actors and real locations contributed to the film’s realism and impact.
- The film has been studied by military and political strategists for its depiction of urban guerrilla warfare and counterinsurgency tactics.
Inspirations and References
The Battle of Algiers is based on real events during the Algerian War of Independence. The film reflects broader themes of anti-colonial struggle, the ethics of revolutionary violence, and the human cost of war. It draws inspiration from neo-realist cinema and documentary filmmaking techniques.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
The final cut of The Battle of Algiers closely follows Gillo Pontecorvo’s vision, with some additional content and behind-the-scenes insights available in special editions and DVD releases.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- The opening scene showing the torture of an FLN member and the subsequent capture of Ali La Pointe.
- The scenes depicting the bombings carried out by FLN women, showing their preparation and the devastating aftermath.
- The street battles and brutal reprisals between the FLN and French forces.
- Colonel Mathieu’s press conference, where he discusses the tactics and ethics of counterinsurgency.
- The final siege of the Casbah and the death of Ali La Pointe.
Iconic Quotes
- “It’s hard to start a revolution. Even harder to sustain it. And hardest of all to win it. But it’s only afterwards, once we’ve won, that the true difficulties begin.” – FLN Leader
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The film includes real historical figures and events, grounding its narrative in factual history.
- The use of hand-held cameras and on-location shooting gives the film a newsreel-like authenticity.
Trivia
- The film’s budget was approximately $800,000, and it was a box office success internationally.
- The Battle of Algiers was banned in France for several years due to its controversial subject matter and portrayal of the French military.
- The Pentagon has screened the film for its insights into guerrilla warfare and counterinsurgency.
Why Watch?
The Battle of Algiers offers a powerful and thought-provoking portrayal of the Algerian War of Independence, featuring standout performances and masterful direction by Gillo Pontecorvo. Its blend of historical accuracy, political commentary, and intense realism makes it a must-watch for fans of war films and political dramas.
Director’s Other Movies
Gillo Pontecorvo also directed:
- Kapò (1960)
- Burn! (1969)
- Ogro (1979)
Recommended Films for Fans
- Z (1969)
- Missing (1982)
- The Battle of Chile (1975)
- State of Siege (1972)
- Apocalypse Now (1979)
