With all the news that has been going on about the recent uprisings in Algeria, Egypt and Libya, we at Jamati Online thought it would be fitting to highlight a film that has flown under the radar, that showcases in great cinemagraphic form, the fight for independence in Algeria.

Roschdy Zem

‘Outside The Law (Hors La Loi)‘ is a story about three brothers who reunite to fight a common enemy–the French.  Set in Algeria after World War II (WWII), the opening scene shows a man being ejected from his ancestral land.  The sons of the man go to live with their mother in a Parisian shantytown called Nanterre where they come up with the idea of fighting for independence by joining the Front de Libération Nationale (FLN).

Abdelkader (Sami Bouajila), has just been released from prison for radical activity and has no trouble embracing the more brutal aspects of revolution. His brother, Messaoud (Roschdy Zem), a veteran of France’s failed Indochina campaign, believes in the cause, but struggles with the necessary violence. He must also separate from his young wife and their newborn son, so as to protect them.  The third brother, Saïd (Jamel Debouze),is more concerned with running a nightclub and training a young Algerian boxer than he is in getting involved physically. He helps the revolution by giving some of his proceeds to his brothers.

For those who like action, you are sure to enjoy the scenes of blood and mayhem.  For the more intellectual at heart, the storyline offers different points of view from all the players, and an opportunity to delve deeper into each of the characters, and the issues that haunt their decisions.

Director Rachid Bouchareb is known for his enigmatic scenes and has an avid international cinema following.  His other films have included ‘Little Senegal’, ‘Days of Glory’, and ‘Dust of Life’.  You can see more about the film on the official website.