“A tense, crack thriller and one of the greatest films to draw a portrait of both sides of urban conflict.” - Ray Pride, Newcity

“The film is not just a relentlessly gripping entertainment but also a cinematic Rorschach blot, a moral miasma that tosses our sympathies this way and that.” - Justin Chang, Los Angeles Times

Tuesday, November 26, 6:00 p.m. | The first film to be released in post-colonial Algeria, THE BATTLE OF ALGIERS portrays the national liberation movement from its inception in 1954 to the country’s independence in 1962. Initially banned in France, Gillo Pontecorvo’s film has been used as a morale-booster by both the Black Panther movement and the 2010 Algerian World Cup team.


Awards & Nominations

Nominee - Best International Film, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, Academy Awards
Winner - Best Film, Venice Film Festival


Propaganda and Counterculture Lecture Series: From the intricate relationship between propaganda, colonialism, imperialism, and globalization we will investigate the complexities of official politics and grassroots movements. This series offers a unique exploration of how film shapes and reflects the socio-political landscapes of our world. Presented in collaboration with the School of the Art Institute’s Art History, Theory, and Criticism Department. Lecturers: Jennifer D. Lee, Mechtild Widrich. $15 general public / $9 Film Center members. Read more


Members can purchase a Propaganda and Counterculture Lecture Series Pass and see six series films with six free popcorns for $45. Not a member? Renew or join here.

Purchase a Lecture Series Pass


The Film Center is ADA accessible. This presentation will be projected without open captions. The theater is hearing-loop equipped. For accessibility requests, please email filmcenter@saic.edu