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Algiers is a 1938 romantic drama film directed by John Cromwell, and based on the French novel "Pepe le Moko" by Henri La Barthe. The film stars Charles Boyer as Pepe le Moko, a notorious thief who lives in the Casbah of Algiers, and Hedy Lamarr as Gaby, a beautiful woman who catches his eye. The movie begins by introducing viewers to Pepe le Moko, a charismatic and elusive thief who has managed to evade the police for years by hiding out in the labyrinthine streets of the Casbah, the old Arab quarter of Algiers. Despite being a criminal, Pepe is loved and respected by the local people, who see him as a Robin Hood figure who steals from the rich and gives to the poor.

However, Pepe's comfortable life in the Casbah is threatened when Inspector Slimane (Joseph Calleia), a determined and wily detective, arrives in Algiers with the goal of capturing him. Slimane is certain that his target will grow tired of hiding and will eventually make a mistake that will lead to his capture.

Soon after his arrival, Slimane sets his sights on Pepe's lover, Ines (Sigrid Gurie), whom he hopes to use as leverage to lure Pepe out of hiding. However, when Gaby, a stunningly beautiful and carefree Parisian, arrives in Algiers on holiday with her older, wealthy husband, Pepe finds himself drawn to her.

Despite Gaby's initial disinterest in Pepe, he manages to charm her and they begin a passionate romance. However, their happiness is short-lived as Slimane and his men close in on Pepe, and Gaby is forced to make a choice between the man she loves and her old life.

Algiers is a visually stunning film, shot entirely on location in Algiers, and featuring beautiful sets and costumes that transport viewers to another time and place. The film's soundtrack, composed by the legendary Hungarian composer and pianist, George Auric, is also a highlight of the movie, featuring sweeping, dramatic music that perfectly captures the film's romantic and exotic atmosphere.

But what really makes Algiers stand out is the performance of Charles Boyer as Pepe le Moko. Boyer's portrayal of the charismatic, elusive thief is nothing short of unforgettable, bringing a complex and nuanced character to life on the screen. He perfectly balances Pepe's tough exterior with moments of vulnerability and tenderness, making it impossible not to root for him even though he is on the wrong side of the law.

Opposite Boyer is Hedy Lamarr, who makes a strong impression as Gaby, the beautiful and vivacious Parisian. Although her character is not as central to the film's plot as Pepe's, Lamarr brings a real warmth and humanity to the role, creating a memorable and engaging character.

Sigrid Gurie, as Ines, also delivers a strong performance, imbuing her character with a real sense of desperation and fear as she becomes caught up in Slimane's attempts to capture Pepe.

Overall, Algiers is an expertly crafted film, featuring stunning visuals, a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, and outstanding performances from its leads. It is a timeless tale of love, crime, and passion, that has stood the test of time and remains a classic of the romantic drama genre.

Algiers is a 1938 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 36 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6.