A film that truly achieves neutrality for an artistic purpose

Rating: 8/10 (11 December 2011)

In "Battle of Algiers", Pontecorvo makes a conscious effort to present an impartial dramatization of the events that took place in Algeria in 1957 by neither demonizing, nor idealizing the Algerian resistance. The film delivers an unapologetic perspective on the injustices faced by the Algerian people, as well as their radical backlash against the French army.
Some cringe at the striking similarities between this film and the current situation in the Middle East. But instead of interpreting it as a prophetic approximation of the present, one quickly learns even after all these years, and even though it has taken on many different forms, the battle between Western idealism and Islamic fundamentalism has had a perpetual presence in the world that will not vanish until both sides relinquish the toxic need to impose their views on the other.
Pontecorvo's most accomplished scenes throughout this film happen when characters are on the verge of a decision. The culmination of these decisions will make you feel shocked, moved, and often angered, but surprisingly not at the characters choices, but at their circumstance.