This film was commissioned by the Algerian government to show both sides of the conflict in the war for independence against the French during the 1950s. The way it is directed in black and white together with the naturalness of the actors and the realism of the violence seems almost a documentary. Of good historical value and with an end with good message.It had its relevance at the time and I consider it a good film, but unfortunately it is dated: although the theme of war is always timeless and parallels can be established with current conflicts, there are already better films within the genre with best script and that appeal more to the casual viewer. I recommend this one only to historians or movie buffs.

The Battle of Algiers reconstructs the events that occurred in the capital city of French Algeria between November 1954 and December 1957, during the Algerian War of Independence. The narrative begins with the organization of revolutionary cells in the Casbah. Then partisan warfare between Muslims and Pied-Noir in which both sides exchange acts of increasing violence leads to the introduction of French army paratroopers to hunt the National Liberation Front (FLN). The paratroopers are depicted as winning the battle by neutralizing the whole of the FLN leadership through either assassination or capture. However, the film ends with a coda depicting nationalist demonstrations and riots, suggesting that although France won the Battle of Algiers, it lost the Algerian War.

The Battle of Algiers is a controversial film about the struggle of Algerian rebels to throw off French occupation. The film depicts the guerrilla tactics of the Algerian insurgency as well as the French counter-insurgency designed to contain and squash the rebellion. Shot in a documentary/newsreel style, the film follows several narrative threads, and takes us inside the command structures on both sides of the conflict. The film ironically points out that the French commander was part of the resistance against the Nazis, and now he's in the role of the occupier, using his knowledge of resistance against those struggling for freedom. Though The Battle of Algiers has a natural back and forth rhythm, showing attacks by one side and then counter attacks by the other, in the end the film's conscience sides with the Algerians struggling for independence and against colonialism. Even though both sides are shown committing acts of violence against civilians, leading some to believe the film is being objective and neutral, the film gives a clear sense of purpose to the Algerians and celebrates their ultimate victory, even though they lose the battle portrayed in the film. As a result The Battle of Algiers was banned in France for 5 years, and the film stands as a powerful depiction of revolutionary struggle against foreign occupation, as well as the lengths colonial powers will go to in order to maintain their empires.

I was scanning channels and happened upon La "Battaglia di Algeri," on TCM. I usually don't watch TCM (I should), but there really wasn't anything else on so I gave it a shot! All I can say is that the acting, plot, and cinematography are among the best I've seen. I never really knew anything about the FLN, Algeria, or the French occupation until I saw this movie. Afterwards I felt much better versed on the subject and even was able to make parallels into modern terrorism and anti-western sentiments felt by Islamic countries. I never realized how far back the roots go. This movie is also fair in portraying brutality on both sides. It definitely appears to be objective in its treatment of the subject matter. The acting is just. Amazing. Whether it be colonel Mathieu or the various Algerian actors, every performance is done to a tee. The score was interesting. It included a lot of percussion and a few strings. When I find out that it was Enrio Morricone, I wasn't surprised. It was awesome! My advice, check this film out. You will not be disappointed.