Tag: Gillo pontecorvo

The Battle of Algiers

The Battle of Algiers is a 1966 movie directed by Gillo Pontecorvo.

The Battle of Algiers shows the distinct sides involved in the Algerian revolution of the 1950’s. Algerians are drawn into the clandestine National Liberation Front, becoming spies and guerrilla soldiers – while the French rely on military special forces to counter the bloody revolt. The Algerians are essentially quarantined and victims to massive bombings. We see the inner workings of the government response and the rationales given for each side’s involvement.

THE BEST – Realism

The movie was funded by the Algerian government, yet it’s tone and message is remarkably not a heavy-handed one. The enemy – in this case the French military tasked with defeating the uprising – is presented not as particularly cruel, but rather technically proficient and coldly calculating. Jean Martin’s Col. Mathieu is believable as he respects the tactical prowess of the revolting Algerians but fails to understand their emotional investment.

THE WORST – Realism

The extensive bombing and shootings conducted by both sides are documented throughout the movie – ultimately revealing the human carnage created. Perhaps the most telling moments involve the trio of female Algerians who leave bombs at various points in the crowded city. The emotions created moments before the explosions – desperately captured through the women’s tense eyes – reveal the cruel complexities of the struggle.

FOX FORCE FIVE RATING – 4.25/5

The Battle of Algiers is a powerful document of a revolution, capturing the dense rationales of each side. Without preaching a certain sentiment, the movie leaves the viewer feeling stunned. It’s a must watch.

Burn!

Burn! is a 1969 movie directed by Gillo Pontecorvo.

Burn! tells the story of Sir William Walker, a British mercenary who helps an Antilles island gain its independence – before returning years later to remove its leader from power. Marlon Brando gives a solid performance as Walker, who mentors Evaristo Marquez’s Jose – before later turning on him. Brando plays his character with a cynicism and wit – he’s essentially a puppeteer hired by forces greater than him. At times, Brando appears disinterested, however we see glimpses of the actor who would emerge in later legendary roles.

THE BEST – The Monologues

Brando’s most memorable moments come as he addresses the island’s governors and Jose, the rebel leader. In his aloof, aristocratic delivery, Brando compares slavery to marriage. He later warns Jose that revolts outlive their need. As their relationship worsens and Jose’s influence grows, Marquez’s character ponders his own fate: “Have I become so dangerous?”

THE WORST – President Sanchez’s Bronzer

Renato Salvatori’s Sanchez is installed as the provisional government’s leader – at least until he overestimates his power. It’s a role easily overshadowed by Brando and Marquez. However, the amount of fake tan applied to Salvatori is spectacular.

FOX FORCE FIVE RATING – 4/5

At times, Burn! appears to be more message than movie. However, Pontecorvo delivers a daring and socially conscious story – using the intriguing Brando-Marquez match and a cast of hundreds to establish some gritty realism.