conflict between native Algerians and European settlers

Rating: 10/10 (10 December 2007)

The Battle of Algiers, a film by Gillo Pontecorvo is based on events during the 1954-1962 Algerian War of Independence against French rule. It depicts the conflict between native Algerians and European settlers in which the two sides exchange acts of increasing violence, leading to the introduction of French paratroopers, under the direction of General Massu and then Colonel Bigeard, to root out the National Liberation Front (FLN). The paratroops are depicted as "winning" the battle by neutralizing the whole FLN leadership through assassination or capture. However, the film ends with a coda, depicting demonstrations and rioting by native Algerians for independence, in which it suggested that though the French have won the Battle of Algiers, they have lost the war. The movie reminds me of the current situation in Iraq. In May 1, 2003 President Bush announced "Mission Accomplished"; however, four years after his announcement, the battle has been intensified. Children shoot soldiers, women plant bombs in restaurants and suicide bomber are increasing. This movie is about independence and fighting for belief. The belief is profoundly rooted in people of Algeria that brought independence to Algeria. It is a lesson that US must learn, military action does not work against strong, deep rooted belief. History is repeating!