Algerian Films at DIFF 2008 Explore the Country's History and Light the Way for the Future
Dubai, December 10, 2008: Of all the North African countries once occupied by France, Algeria has arguably had the most turbulent post-colonial history, from the six-year struggle for independence to the harrowing internecine fighting of the 1990's. Through it all, Algerians themselves have retained their culture and struggled with the legacy of the past, as evidenced in five fascinating films at the Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF) this year.
La Chine est Encore Loin (China is Still Far) epitomizes Algeria's tenuous position. An evocative and nostalgic feature that recalls the turbulent Algerian battle for independence fifty years ago, the film sees prolific documentarian Malek Bensmail visiting a small village in the Algerian countryside described as the 'Cradle of the Revolution'. Through filming the present-day inhabitants, he delves deep into the past, unearthing a fascinating tapestry of stories that reflect the Algerian struggle to define a future while dealing with the tumultuous legacies of the past.
Mostefa ben Boulaid is the story of the Algerian hero who was one of the central commandants of the War of Independence. Having instigated and led the beginning of the rebellion from jail, he nevertheless refused to be acknowledged as a leader, insisting instead to operate in a staunchly democratic form. Director Ahmed Rachedi depicts Mostefa's revolutionary actions and friendships with his men; Rachedi received an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture in 1969 for the Costa Gavras film Z, which he co-produced.
Masquerades, a first-time feature by director Lyes Salem (who also appears in the film) lightens the Algerian offerings with the amusing story of Mounir Mekbek, who lives with his family in a little village in the heart of the Algerian Aures. Very proud, he has only one dream: to finally be appreciated at his true value by his fellow citizens. His Achilles heel is his sister Rym, who falls asleep anywhere and whom the village is convinced will end up a spinster. One evening, Mounir returns from town and announces that he's found a rich suitor for her. And the organisation for the ceremony begins... without a bridegroom.
Two short films in the Muhr Awards competition are also from Algerian filmmakers: Choisir D'Aimer (Choosing Love) takes us to Paris, where a university student (played by brilliant upcoming star Laila Bhekti) attempts to lead a double life - in love with her French boyfriend Pascal, and staying true to her Algerian family, particular her strict, traditional father. Meanwhile her cousin Yacine leads a parallel life in Algiers, preparing to leave his girlfriend to move to Paris. Souvenirs D'Alger (From Algiers with Love) is set in Algiers in 1993. When returning home one night, Jean-René finds a threatening letter in his mailbox. Will the terrorists come and find him tonight? He turns to his neighbour for help, in a brilliantly written small piece of cinema from the award-winning filmmaker Jean-Luc Ayach and playwright Mohamed Zemaich.
All films will be screened at DIFF 2008, which runs from December 11 to 18. For further information, please consult the festival's website at www.dubaifilmfest.com.
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© Press Release 2008
