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Les Sacrifiés

Les Sacrifiés (1983)

Mar 23, 1983 1h 37m Drama

In 1955, a year after the birth of the National Liberation Front (FLN), Mahmoud was expelled from Algeria by the colonial authorities who feared his revolutionary speeches. At the age of 27, he arrived in the Algerian slum of Nanterre. Roughly questioned by FLN activists, in disagreement with the Algerian Nationalist Movement (MNA) who wanted to recognize theirs, he was then accepted as the local hairdresser and shoemaker. Subsequently, he became a driver during anti-MNA expeditions. Accepting increasingly dangerous missions, he is imprisoned by the French police and once again undergoes interrogations and special treatment by the police which will definitively undermine his sanity. One day, he no longer recognized his companions, and when joy broke out among the FLN militants, at the announcement of the signing of the Evian Accords, Mahmoud remained alone, frozen in an attitude of refusal, walled in his madness. Algeria has just won its independence.

Directed by Okacha Touita

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Okacha Touita
Writer
  • Dominique Lancelot
  • Okacha Touita
  • Philippe Dodet
Producer
  • Jean-Marc Henchoz
  • Sylvette Frydman

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Les Sacrifiés examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Okacha Touita brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1983, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Les Sacrifiés took approximately 21 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 97 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 141 minutes long.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
  • The costume department created over 209 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The musical score contains over 80 unique compositions.

Historical Context

  • In 1983, when this film was released:
  • Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
  • Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

While Les Sacrifiés shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Le Rescapé, which focuses more on action than character development, Les Sacrifiés offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like The Refusal and Les Trois Cousins explore similar territory, Les Sacrifiés stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: March 23, 1983
  • Runtime: 1h 37m

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