Winner of the Golden Lion at the 1966 Venice Film Festival and nominated for three Oscars, The Battle of Algiers is a unique, ground-breaking film revered by filmmakers such from Ken Loach to Christopher Nolan.
Shot in a gritty documentary-esque style cultivated by director Gillo Pontecorvo, the film makes pioneering use of amateur actors, including real-life guerrilla fighter Saadi Yacef (who co-produced the film). The result is a palpable sense of realism, particularly in the film's unforgettable crowd scenes. The film's accuracy is such that it has been co-opted by would-be colonisers (including screening as part of Pentagon training programmes) to illustrate guerilla strategy. More importantly, it has become a cultural touchstone for those who are oppressed and displaced by invasion and occupation, and a still-relevent indictment of the ills of imperialism.
Painstakingly restored in 4k with the participation of the director's son, cinematographer and director Marco Pontecorvo, this edition of The Battle of Algiers was nominated for the Best Restored Film at the 2016 Venice Film Festival.
Extras
The Making of The Battle of Algiers - Interview with Director Gillo Pontecorvo
The Real Battle of Algiers - Interview with Saadi Yacef
The Battle of Algiers 4k - Restoration Process
Our War for Freedom - Blu Ray only Interview with FLN Fighter Zohra Drif Bitat
Exclusive interview with Director Ken Loach
Exclusive presentation by Director Paul Greengrass