The Algerian

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Dec 20, 2018 The Algerian is truly an Independent film. It was a labor of love to create this work. It is so relative to what is going on in the world today. The possibility does exist that there are sleeper cells operating within the United States. The Director Giovanni Zelko who is a student of history and a film school graduate has put his diverse skills, his drive for excellence into this film. It will make you think and wonder what part do each of us play in creating the reality in which we find ourselves in today. This is a must see. See more

Jul 16, 2015 A thriller that you will talk about See more

Jul 1, 2015 I am no stranger to independent productions, I've definitely seen my fair share. Going into this film, knowing only that it was made on a shoestring budget, I really didn't know what to expect. What played out on the screen was a very decent film that looked fantastic, with the quality of a much larger production. The story admittedly began with a rushed hook, but it quickly found its pacing and I found myself to be a fly on the wall of a well-acted, politically charged modern drama that kept me on edge to the end. The Algerian successfully presents multiple viewpoints of sensitive and often uncomfortable subject matter without strongly taking sides. The character archetypes at times feel a little formulaic, but this is overshadowed by inspired acting and the genuine likability & chemistry of the main cast. For a feature-length debut from a talented and smart filmmaker, this movie is a labor of love that delivers a wrenching, thought-provoking and ultimately worthwhile story that I wouldn't hesitate to recommend. See more

Jun 30, 2015 I saw The Algerian at a film festival last summer and have been rooting for this film to make it to theaters ever since. We live in such a significant time for terrorism, and after seeing this chillingly close-to-reality movie, I couldn't imagine a more relevant and fitting drama to give perspective on arguably the most pressing issue in recent history. This unique film, amidst the explosions and action sequences, has a message and a powerful meaning behind it that makes it so remarkable and a must-see for everyone. A bomb blast that kills a mother right in front of her young child's eyes is the spark that ignites The Algerian, an international political thriller from writer-director Giovanni Zelko, who puts two worlds on a collision course and makes audiences wait for the inevitable. As the title indicates, the film puts audiences in close proximity with an Algerian sleeper cell who comes to America on a mission to avenge the murder of his parents when he was a child. We follow "Ali," played by Ben Youcef, whose magnetic breakout performance is marked by a mysterious fullness that trickles down into every scene, as he comes into contact with a diverse mix of people in Los Angeles who help to change his perception of the very individuals who he is plotting to kill. Youcef's melodious voice and steely exterior plays wonderfully with the supporting cast, whose vital presence drive The Algerian forward. The story line is easy to follow, but the subtext is intelligent and thought provoking. Zelko is a groundbreaking artist who dares to take on the challenge of exploring the evolution of a terrorist, who he reveals through tragedy, hardships, breakthroughs, and shows us how sometimes, human to human contact is enough to change minds and hearts, and diminish one's capacity to commit evil, all the while transcending barriers of politics, culture, and religion. The Algerian truly keeps us walking on a tightrope until the very end... No spoilers here, only my advice to skip the usual fluff in theaters this summer and go see this urgent and thrilling art imitating life film with a story that could have been ripped straight from the headlines. See more

Jun 29, 2015 This movie is compelling on many fronts. First it shows you the real power of human emotion and that good has always triumph over evil. Second it speaks to everyone on a level anyone can understand and at a time it's much needed. Bravo to the film and its message of ultimate peace and how we can change our thinking. Great movie highly recommend! See more

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The Algerian

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