Awesome and unforgettable

Rating: Null/10 (21 May 2001)

The starkest and most effective piece of military history I have ever seen on film. Watching this at my university cinema, I was electrified and quite unable to move as the terrible, entirely true story was honestly told. Despite being a state funded effort, this film shows both the French colonial forces and the Arab opposition with utter honesty. It never shirks from the terrible brutality shown and the suffering inflicted by both sides.

Interestingly it is the French commanding officer, Colonel Mathieu, who stands out as the closest this film gets to having a 'hero'. His methods are often extremely cruel (electrocution and suffocation are some of his more memorable interrogation techniques), but his leadership is unquestionable and both his men and his enemies have a huge respect for him. In light of the atrocities committed by both sides, it is Mathieu who commands the audience's sympathy.
As a study of the politics behind the Algerian war this film reveals little other than on an emotional and personal level. As a study of counter insurgency warfare and military leadership it is exemplary. It is also the most balanced political film I have ever seen.
Truly remarkable!