Amazing.

Rating: 10/10 (17 December 2010)

I've always liked war films but I think The Battle of Algiers shoots up to the top of my list of favorites. This film is based on the events that took place while the French colonial rule in Northern Africa during the Algerian War, most notably the Battle of Algiers. What I really love about this film is that it takes you into the mindset of a normal citizen and you understand why they become a terrorist/insurgent. It's a little terrifying, to be honest, to see what lengths they'll go to in order to insure their freedom. But at the same time, their reason behind the actions is justifiable. True, it leaves you questioning both the French and Algerian for their actions; it's like an unrefined chess match, each move escalating the tension until it just snaps and the violence just reaches an all new high.
It's shot beautifully in black and white, leaving viewers under the impression they are watching a piece of news reel. It's brutally realistic and you can't help but wonder how they shot the explosion scenes. The film is raw and it pulls at the barest of human emotion. You feel empathy for the Algerians, under a rule they no longer want. It's an amazing piece of art and comes highly recommended.