Battle of Algiers

Shot on location, and starring actual FLN rebels, Battle of Algiers is one of the most viciously realistic films of all time. Initially banned by the French government, it quickly won wide acclaim; an Academy Award nomination for Best Foreign Film and garnishing 11 international awards. Struggling to rid their country of French colonialism, Ali La Pointe and his terrorist group paint the streets of Casbah red with the blood of their enemies. Children shoot soldiers at point blank range. Women plant bombs in cafÈs. Soon the entire Arab population builds to a mad fervor. French Colonel Phillipe Mathieu, a highly decorated officer, is called upon to quash the uprising. But Algiers is on fire and the battle has just begun.