Les Folles années du twist (1986) - film review

Algeria, 1960.  In a small village, the arrival of western pop music (notably "The Twist") is making an impression every bit as great as the on-going struggle between the pro- and anti- liberationists.  Whilst political extremists perpetuate the conflict, most people get on with their lives, grateful for the benefits of western society.  Two irresponsible young men, Boualem and Salah, make mischief and exploit the situation to make a fast buck or two, before the politics of Algerian Independence finally hits home...

Films about Algeria’s troubled path to independence from its colonial master, France, are not hard to come by, but few offer a genuinely objective, non-sensationalist version of events.  Mahmoud Zemmouri’s film Les Folles années du twist stands apart, mainly because its approach is comedic (almost farcical) instead of dramatic, but also because it portrays the period from the perspective of ordinary Algerian people and rigorously avoids taking sides.  What we see are people who are trying to get on with their lives, in spite of the constant threat of terrorist attacks and endless political tirades from those who seem only intent on driving the country apart.

By focusing on two young men, who cynically profit from the disturbance (albeit without malice) and their families, the film offers an insight into how contradictory and confused Algerian society must have been after the war with France and before its liberation in 1962.  Western influences are leaving their mark in ways which are hard to fathom but which seem to underscore the central paradox of the Algerian people.  One Algerian oldster proudly proclaims his allegiance to De Gaulle whilst another regards all western merchandise with total contempt.   And it is not just the political schism with France which is preoccupying these mixed-up people.   Women are becoming increasingly vociferous about their rights to work and vote, whilst young people are irresistibly drawn to Western culture – particularly its fashion and its music.  A few bombs going off now and then isn’t going to prevent these people pursuing their dreams and having a good time if they can.

With its acerbic comedy (which is hilarious in a few places, perhaps because it is so unexpected), Les Folles années du twist offers an unusual, affectionate and thought-provoking portrait of the Algerian people during one of the most crucial points in their history.  Whilst it may not be as polished or as historically important as other films centred around Algeria’s independence, it is certainly worth seeing, mainly for its rare tongue-in-cheek, strikingly humanist perspective.

© James Travers 2003

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