A Classic War Movie That Sparked Controversy: Roger Ebert's Favorite
A powerful film that challenges our perceptions of war and revolution.
In the realm of classic war movies, few have left as lasting an impact as "The Battle of Algiers." This 1966 masterpiece, currently streaming on HBO Max, takes us to the heart of the Algerian rebellion against French colonial rule. What makes this film truly remarkable is its nuanced portrayal of a complex conflict, offering a perspective that might just leave you questioning your own beliefs.
The film's director, Gillo Pontecorvo, crafted a narrative that dared to show the Algerian insurgency in a sympathetic light, while also acknowledging the atrocities committed by the French military. This delicate balance caught the attention of renowned film critic Roger Ebert, who, in his 1968 review, praised the film's raw and unflinching realism.
"'The Battle of Algiers' exists at a level of bitter reality that might be too much for some audiences. It's a film that cuts deep, revealing the cynicism, truth, cruelty, and heartbreak of war. While it's set in Algeria, its themes are universal, applicable to conflicts like Vietnam, Northern Ireland, or the Israeli-Palestinian struggle."
Ebert's words hint at the film's controversial nature. Depending on one's political leanings, the movie could be seen as a powerful statement or a biased portrayal. For instance, if you viewed the IRA as terrorists, you might find the film's perspective unsettling. Similarly, the French press of the time largely opposed the film's release, delaying it until 1971, perhaps out of a desire to protect their country's image.
But time has a way of softening perspectives. As Ebert himself evolved in his interpretation of the film, so too did the French public, eventually embracing the movie as a powerful piece of historical reflection.
"The Battle of Algiers" served as an inspiration for future revolutionary films, such as Paul Thomas Anderson's "One Battle After Another." This latter film, much like "The Battle of Algiers," explores the tactics of a revolutionary group, known as the French 75, and their struggle against an authoritarian government. The similarities in approach and theme are evident, with critics divided on whether the film condemns violence on both sides or leans more towards the revolutionary cause.
It's a testament to the impact of "The Battle of Algiers" that Anderson included a scene where a member of the French 75 is seen watching the film. It's as if he, like Ebert, recognized the power and relevance of this '60s classic.
Unfortunately, we'll never know Ebert's thoughts on Anderson's take, as he passed away in 2013. But his legacy and the impact of "The Battle of Algiers" live on, inviting us to reflect on the complexities of war and the human spirit's unyielding desire for freedom.
