Review of The Algerian (2014) by D____ B — 30 Jun 2015

I am no stranger to independent productions, I've definitely seen my fair share. Going into this film, knowing only that it was made on a shoestring budget, I really didn't know what to expect.

What played out on the screen was a very decent film that looked fantastic, with the quality of a much larger production. The story admittedly began with a rushed hook, but it quickly found its pacing and I found myself to be a fly on the wall of a well-acted, politically charged modern drama that kept me on edge to the end.

The Algerian successfully presents multiple viewpoints of sensitive and often uncomfortable subject matter without strongly taking sides. The character archetypes at times feel a little formulaic, but this is overshadowed by inspired acting and the genuine likability & chemistry of the main cast.

For a feature-length debut from a talented and smart filmmaker, this movie is a labor of love that delivers a wrenching, thought-provoking and ultimately worthwhile story that I wouldn't hesitate to recommend.