The Battle of Algiers (1966)

Cinéma vérité, almost documentary-like Italin/French film about the Algerian war for independence in the 1950’s and early 1960’s. Fictionalized and condensed, but also a largely accurate depiction of guerilla warfare (it was screened at the pentagon during the buildup to the Iraq war as a primer on urban guerilla combat). Film largely follows the revolutionaries, whose activates are often terrorist in nature, but seems sympathetic to both sides. The recently deceased Jean Martin (1922-2009) gives a memorable performance as the French Col. Mathieu, who fights bravely and smartly, despite knowing that his side is destined to lose. Excellent.