Classic War Film

Rating: 9/10 (28 June 2006)

This is a great movie, shot in "semi-documentary" style..It manages to maintain a very balanced view...the rebels are sympathetic, even as they blow up civilians and the colonel is clearly moved by their commitment to their cause even as he tries to stop them and save Algeria "for France." There are some really unforgettable moments: rebels being tortured against a quiet background, the look on one of the rebel women's face when she realizes that the child eating ice cream in the café may well be her next victim.
The number of characters can get confusing at times, but I agree this is a must see for everyone...especially if you are convinced that you can only be on one side of a war.....