With his second feature, writer-director Hélier Cisterne recreates the tragic true story of a young communist worker devoted to the struggle for Algerian independence. He became the only Algerian of European background to be executed as a political prisoner by the French authorities during Algeria’s War of Independence. He left behind a loving wife and adoptive son. Moving smoothly between Paris and Algiers, Cisterne plunges us into the heart of a conflict that continues to resonate in contemporary France, North Africa, and beyond, providing a chilling reminder of colonial tyranny, as well as a hopeful example of a man who chose humanity over politics and profit.
"Passionate script... and the two main actors exude conviction."
Subscribe to the French Film Festival UK newsletter
We’ll bring you our recommendations of the best Francophone titles, either on demand or in the cinema. We’ll also keep you up to date with all the latest happenings at the French Film Festival UK in November and December.