Clever depicts the vicious cycle of war

Rating: 9/10 (13 June 2011)

Gillo Pontecorvo cleverly and calculating depicts the Algerian War. War is an endless cycle and a tough subject to depict. It is anything but glamorous, and should be understood by both sides. Ali is a depiction of a strong character that would stop at nothing for the freedom of his people. Our eyes are opened to the vicious cycle of war and what goes on in a country seeking independence. Other countries and cultures can relate. It is no surprise women and children participate in the Algerian resistance.
War harms all who participate on some level and innocent bystanders as well. Gillo Pontecorvo has a natural talent for portraying the right feelings and emotions he wants his audience members to feel. The ending was unfair for the French to decide to blow up Ali and everyone inside in hiding spot, including the boy; but after all, war is unfair and unjust. Achieving the goal set forth at any cost with immoral measures and complete disregard to the human life. There is an apparent tension between the surrounding social conditions and the aspiration of Ali all the other people seeking independence. The tensions between the French and Algerians portrays the struggle from both sides; the consciousness of revolution stirring amidst our hateful society hinders progress. Everyone possesses the love of humanity in our hearts and the the film shows the struggle and immense power of the people!