'Battle of Algiers' - Anti-colonial Film Series part 1
The Battle of Algiers (1966) is an anti-colonial film about Algeria’s struggle for independence against the French. The film focuses primarily on a guerrilla campaign (1956-57) of the National Liberation Front (FLN) against the colonial government.
Although released 50 years ago, the Battle of Algiers is as timely and relevant as ever. It is political and uncompromising; it depicts the horrors of French colonial rule, including torture and terrorist bombardment campaigns; and it shows the hardships Algerian nationalists had to face to free themselves from oppression and servitude.
The Battle of Algiers has influenced a generation of filmmakers and has won the Golden Lion at the 1966 Venice Film Festival, despite objections from the French government that banned it. The film was shot and edited in documentary/newsreel style, making it seem like you are watching events currently unfolding. Its truthfulness even put it on the list of the US military’s study material for urban warfare.
"There is [...] the sense that the actors are not acting, but are the people themselves which gives the film an immediacy and an authenticity seldom achieved in any motion picture. It's like being there" - Billy Kelly, Penn State University
"[Director] Pontecorvo's massively political filmstyle is uncompromising and yet lyrical and even redemptive." - Edward Said
The film constitutes a “political and aesthetic standard never again equaled.” - Edward Said
Join us for an evening with a great film followed by a lively discussion.
Language: English (Dutch translation is available)
For questions write to: criticalcollective@riseup.
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In our "Anti-colonial Film Series" we will screen multiple films about anti-colonial struggles. The Battle of Algiers is the first film in this Series.
Aanvang: 19.00 | Entree: gratis
