Watch Viva Laldjerie

Viva Laldjerie is a 2004 film directed by Nadir Moknèche and set in Algiers, Algeria during the 1990s civil war. The movie follows the lives of three women from different generations who live in the same neighborhood, Laldjerie. The first protagonist is Fifi, a young and carefree prostitute in her twenties who is struggling to make ends meet. Despite her difficult circumstances, Fifi finds joy in her work and her relationships with her clients and her friends. Her carefree spirit stands in sharp contrast to the violence and political turmoil that surrounds her.

The second protagonist is Aïcha, a middle-aged widow who runs a bakery in the neighborhood. Aïcha is a conservative traditionalist who disapproves of Fifi's work and the modern lifestyle of young women. She is also deeply affected by the war, as her beloved husband was killed in a bombing.

The third protagonist is Papicha, an elderly former freedom fighter who is now an alcoholic recluse. Papicha is haunted by her experiences fighting for independence during the Algerian war of the 1950s and 60s. She also harbors a secret past that brings her closer to Fifi than the other women in the neighborhood.

As the story unfolds, these three women meet and interact, challenging each other's beliefs and preconceptions. They are also affected by the war in different ways, as the conflict grows increasingly violent and the neighborhood becomes a battleground between the government and the Islamic militants.

Through the characters of Fifi, Aïcha, and Papicha, Viva Laldjerie explores themes of identity, gender, sexuality, and political conflict. The movie portrays the clash between traditional values and modernity, as manifested in the lives and choices of the three women. It also depicts the experience of women in a patriarchal society and how they navigate the challenges and opportunities presented to them.

The performances of the main actresses, Lubna Azabal, Biyouna, and Nadia Kaci are outstanding, bringing depth and nuance to their respective roles. The supporting cast is also excellent, creating a rich and vivid portrayal of the neighborhood and its inhabitants.

The cinematography is another highlight of the movie, capturing the beauty and complexity of Algiers and its people. The director makes excellent use of color and light, creating a visual language that communicates the mood and atmosphere of each scene.

Overall, Viva Laldjerie is a powerful and poignant film that offers a glimpse into the lives of women in Algeria during a turbulent and uncertain period. It is a tribute to the resilience and strength of women in the face of adversity, and a reminder of the human cost of political conflict.

Viva Laldjerie is a 2004 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 51 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6.