Cinema and the Algerian War of Independence

"This is an important, humane book. It tells a kind of secret history and reveals visual treasures—some of which, as Bedjaoui emphasizes, risk slowly subsiding into neglect and decay. Film historians everywhere should welcome this valuable volume, I hope as much as I do."

--Guy Austin, Newcastle University, UK

"With this brilliant work, Ahmed Bedjaoui shows and reminds us how Algeria's liberation movement used cinema and images as weapons in their struggle, and to create a memory of the War of Independence."

--Olivier Hadouchi, Researcher, IRCAV - Paris 3, France

The book examines the war of images between France and Algeria during the Algerian War. Discussing the role of the United States during the war, it covers topics such as the presence of American reporters in Algeria, John F. Kennedy’s support for Algerian independence while a senator, the broadcasting of documentaries on the Algerian War on public television, and reporting in the press. Even half a century after Algerian independence, there remains a need for both film and literature on the war from both sides of the Mediterranean. This might seem surprising, particularly to media professionals, given the quantity of output on the subject, but both French and Algerian portrayals of the war remain flawed and shackled to their respective ideologies.

The book offers an insightful and timely contribution not just to the field of North African studies but also to other disciplines, such as film and media studies, anthropology, history, journalism, and political science. Providing a rich source of research topics and viable ideas for film and documentary projects, it is a must-read for students, scholars, and media professionals alike.

Ahmed Bedjaoui graduated from the Paris Institute of Cinematographic Studies and holds a Ph.D. in American studies. He is a Professor of Audiovisual Communication and Cinema at Algiers University 3. He is the artistic manager of Algiers International Film Festival.