Coup d’envoi des « Nuits d’Ouled Djellal du cinéma révolutionnaire »
Cultural Event: "Nights of Ouled Djellal of Revolutionary Cinema"
The cultural event, "Nights of Ouled Djellal of Revolutionary Cinema," commenced on Saturday evening with the screening of Ahmed Rachedi’s feature film "L’opium et le bâton." This celebration was held in the public square in front of the Wilaya headquarters and aims to highlight Algerian cinema’s significant role in documenting the country’s historical struggle for independence. The event aligns with the upcoming Victory Day celebrations on March 19.
"L’opium et le bâton," adapted from Mouloud Mammeri’s 1965 novel of the same name, chronicles the Algerian fight for independence through the lens of daily life in the Kabylie village of Thala. The film, spanning 2 hours and 15 minutes, follows Dr. Bachir who returns to his humble village from a life of luxury to join the oppressed in their fight against French occupation, alongside one of his brothers.
Mounir Aïssoug, the Wilaya’s Director of Culture and Arts, spoke to the APS during the inaugural screening, emphasizing that the event would allow residents of Ouled Djellal and nearby areas to rediscover various Algerian films that focus on the Revolution. He expressed a desire for young audiences to draw inspiration from the courage and sacrifices of the Algerian people in their quest for freedom and independence.
In addition to "L’opium et le bâton," the "Nights of Ouled Djellal of Revolutionary Cinema" program will feature screenings of other notable films such as "Le vent des Aurès" by Mohamed-Lakhdar Hamina and "Héliopolis" by Djafar Kacem, which depicts the Massacres of May 8, 1945, in Sétif, Guelma, and Kherrata.
This event will continue until March 20 and is organized by the Directorate of Culture and Arts in collaboration with the National Center for Cinematography and Audiovisual. The initiative underscores the importance of cinema as a medium to reflect historical struggles and inspire current and future generations on the values of heroism and resilience associated with the Algerian struggle for independence.
Overall, the "Nights of Ouled Djellal of Revolutionary Cinema" serves not only as a cultural celebration but also as a remembrance and homage to the pivotal moments in Algeria’s history through the art of film.
