What do you think of the movie, The Battle of Algiers?

Question

I have seen it, and it has changed my mind about American foreign policy in the Middle East.

Answer 1

I saw it recently on DVD (for the first time). I thought it was masterfully done, and very powerful. It certainly showed the limits of military power against cultural movements. The French won the battle, but ultimately could not govern a populace that was opposed to their rule.

Actually, studying any of the French or British experiences with their various colonies and protectorates in the Arab world should have lowered the US expectations for what could be achieved in the region.

Answer 2

I haven't seen it but does it have a man in there named Roger Trinquier? A role after a real person, not an actor. He's French and responsible for the disappearance of over 3000 Algerians. His torture methods were similar to that of the gestapo.