The Battle of Algiers

A petty criminal who becomes politically radicalized in prison, Ali La Pointe becomes a central figure for the FLN's urban strategy. His charisma and willingness to take risks help recruit others and mobilize the Casbah’s residents. He embodies the transformation from street life to revolutionary commitment, though his methods are controversial within the movement.

Paratroop commander and principal French figure in the campaign, Mathieu embodies disciplined counterinsurgency. He pursues a relentless strategy to neutralize the FLN leadership, often resorting to coercive methods. The portrayal highlights the dehumanizing pressures of warfare and the moral compromises of military authority.

FLN commander who recruits Ali and coordinates urban operations, Jafar represents seasoned revolutionary leadership. He articulates political rationale for the insurgency and guides the movement's tactical choices. His presence anchors the FLN’s strategic logic within the Casbah.

A street urchin who serves as an FLN messenger, Omar embodies the vulnerability and resourcefulness of youth amid conflict. He navigates the Casbah’s dangerous landscape and helps transmit messages that sustain the network. His role highlights how the war touches even the youngest residents.

Top FLN leader who provides the political rationale for the insurgency and helps orchestrate operations, Ben M'hidi represents strategic legitimacy within the movement. He is depicted as charismatic and determined, shaping the course of urban guerrilla warfare.

A Casbah resident symbolic of civilian life disrupted by war, the Marié de la Casbah embodies social dimensions of the conflict. His interactions reflect how the insurgency intersects with daily life and relationships in wartime Algiers.

La Mariée is an urban guerrilla figure whose actions demonstrate the FLN’s reach into civilian life. Her storyline underscores gender participation in the insurgency and the fragile line between domestic life and political violence.

French Army captain who leads troops in the Casbah, his decisions reflect the logic of occupation and counterinsurgency. He embodies authority, surveillance, and the coercive tactics used to control urban spaces during the war.

Another French captain involved in the operations against the FLN, he represents the professional military perspective within the counterinsurgency effort. His actions contribute to the portrayal of a prolonged, resource-intensive campaign.

FLN fighter participating in urban operations, he embodies the active insurgent force within the Casbah. His presence demonstrates the FLN’s organizational depth and willingness to take part in violence for the cause.

A minor, uncredited figure moments in the film whose presence punctuates the everyday street life of Algiers. This character illustrates how war intrudes into ordinary moments and social spaces.