The Battle of Algiers (1966)

Directed by Gillo Pontecorvo | Italy, Algeria | 121 min A groundbreaking neorealist film, this acclaimed classic depicts the organization and activities of the guerilla revolutionaries of the National Liberation Front in Algeria in their battle for freedom against the French colonialist armies that attempted to suppress and destroy them. An incredible filmmaking achievement, with a beloved score by Ennio Morricone, Battle of Algiers is often ranked among the greatest films of all time, and has influenced real world guerilla movements, been studied by counterinsurgency agencies, and influenced future filmmakers such as Paul Thomas Anderson’s recent Best Picture winner One Battle After Another. We dedicate this film to Arab populations battling against colonialist forces all across the Middle East. Written by Ben Rowe. Part of our Cinema of Resistance Series.