Mohamed Lakhdar Hamina, un riche parcours qui a marqué le cinéma algérien
Mohamed Lakhdar Hamina: A Cinematic Legacy
Mohamed Lakhdar Hamina, a distinguished actor, director, and producer, passed away at the age of 95, leaving an indelible mark on Algerian cinema over more than five decades. His works reflect the rich history and culture of Algeria, and his contributions continue to resonate within the cinematic landscape.
Early Life and Education
Born in M’sila, Hamina displayed an early affinity for photography and visuals. He began his formal education in Algeria and continued it in France. By 1958, he moved to Tunisia for further training, where he connected with fellow combatants and began filming in the maquis, or resistance areas. The following year, he was sent by the FLN (National Liberation Front) to Czechoslovakia to study cinematography. His studies in Prague focused primarily on cinematography, while he maintained connections back in Tunisia, collaborating on films like "Yasmina" and "La Voix du peuple."
Post-Independence Contributions
After Algeria gained independence, Hamina pivotal role in establishing the "Office des actualités algériennes" (Office of Algerian News), where he served as director from 1963 to 1974. His career took off in 1965 with his first feature film, "Le Vent des Aurès." The film, featuring Keltoum (Aicha Adjouri), tells the poignant story of a mother searching for her son amid the turmoil and repression of the French colonial regime. This debut earned him the Prize for Best First Film at the Cannes Film Festival in 1967, marking Algeria’s entry onto the international filmmaking scene.
Hamina continued to gain recognition with subsequent films, such as "Hassen Terro" in 1968, starring the beloved “Rouiched” (Ahmed Ayad). This film resonated with Algerian audiences, solidifying Hamina’s status as a prominent filmmaker. In 1972, he released "Décembre," which powerfully condemned the atrocities of torture conducted by the colonial army, further establishing his commitment to exploring Algeria’s grim historical narratives.
Iconic Works and Achievements
In 1974, Hamina directed "Chronique des années de braise," a significant historical epic that chronicles Algeria’s resistance against colonial rule. Comprising six segments, the film visually narrates the journey from early resistance efforts to the October 1954 revolution. It won the prestigious Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival in 1975, affirming Hamina’s international acclaim.
Hamina also held the position of director at the Office National du Cinéma et de l’Industrie Cinématographique (ONCIC) from 1981 to 1984. During this period, he directed two additional films: "Vent de sable" (1982) and "La Dernière Image" (1985). His final feature, "Crépuscule des ombres," was completed in 2014, wrapping up an illustrious career.
Beyond directing, Hamina produced acclaimed films, such as Costa Gavras’ "Z" (1969) and Ettore Scola’s "Le Bal" (1983). Hamina also made cameo appearances in several films, including "Chroniques des années de braise," where he played "Miloud," a storyteller struggling with madness and societal indifference.
Legacy and Influence
Hamina’s unwavering love for Algeria was intertwined with his cinematic passion. Throughout his career, he adeptly used his art to serve the national cause, showcasing the complexities of Algeria’s history and multi-faceted culture. His ability to weave personal narratives into broader historical contexts allowed for a deeper understanding of Algeria’s past and its resilience.
His contributions were not only artistic but also deeply rooted in the social and political fabric of the nation. Hamina’s films often serve as critical reflections on colonialism, identity, and the human experience, making them timeless pieces that continue to inspire new generations.
Final Farewell
Mohamed Lakhdar Hamina’s legacy will endure in the annals of Algerian cinema. His dedication to showcasing the nation’s struggles and triumphs through film will remain a significant part of Algeria’s cultural heritage. He was laid to rest at the Sidi Yahia cemetery in Algiers, leaving behind a rich legacy that highlights the power of cinema as a medium for storytelling and social change.
