Imagine a film so raw, so unflinching in its portrayal of war, that it leaves you questioning everything you thought you knew about right and wrong. That’s The Battle of Algiers, a 1966 masterpiece now streaming on HBO Max. This isn’t your typical war movie—it’s a bold, controversial exploration of Algeria’s fight against French colonial rule, and it’s as relevant today as it was decades ago. But here’s where it gets controversial: While it portrays Algerian rebels in a sympathetic light, it doesn’t shy away from depicting the brutal tactics of both sides. This duality sparked debates that still resonate, especially when you consider its parallels to modern conflicts like the Vietnam War, the Troubles in Northern Ireland, or the Israeli-Palestinian struggle. And this is the part most people miss: the film’s impact wasn’t just on audiences—it influenced later revolutionary films and even inspired real-life movements.
Legendary film critic Roger Ebert called it a ‘great film’ that operates at a ‘level of bitter reality,’ warning that its unflinching honesty might be too much for some viewers. He awarded it four stars in 1968, noting its universal themes that transcend Algeria’s specific struggle. Ebert’s interpretation evolved over time, though. Initially, he saw the film as neutral, balancing between the Algerian National Liberation Front (FLN) and the French. But by 2004, he argued it clearly sided with the FLN, pointing to its silent portrayal of FLN attacks contrasted with Ennio Morricone’s mournful score during French retaliation. This shift in perspective raises a thought-provoking question: Can a film truly remain neutral when depicting such morally complex conflicts?
The film’s reception wasn’t just divisive among critics—it was outright banned in France until 1971. The French press fiercely opposed its release, uncomfortable with how it portrayed their country’s actions in Algeria. Yet, over time, even France warmed to the film, proving that art can outlast the controversies it sparks. And here’s another bold point: Paul Thomas Anderson’s One Battle After Another seems to pay homage to The Battle of Algiers, with a scene featuring a revolutionary watching the classic film. Both movies explore similar dynamics of resistance and violence, leaving audiences to debate where their sympathies lie.
Ebert’s tragic passing in 2013 means we’ll never know his take on Anderson’s film, but his legacy lives on in how he championed The Battle of Algiers as a timeless exploration of war and humanity. This isn’t just a movie—it’s a mirror held up to society, forcing us to confront uncomfortable truths. So, here’s the question for you: Does The Battle of Algiers glorify violence, or does it expose the brutal realities of colonialism and resistance? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments—this is one debate that’s far from over.
