The Algerian

The Algerian is truly an international film in scope, not only because the film was made on three continents (Europe, Africa and North America) but also because the filmmakers and cast are a group of multi-national professionals who come from The United States, Algeria, Sweden, Jamaica, Italy, Lebanon, Jordan, Pakistan and India. The provocative post 9-11 story follows a young Muslim man, Ali, from Algeria to New York, Las Vegas and Los Angeles, where he lives a double life as a sleeper cell pretending to be a university student. As Ali awaits activation orders from the other three members of his cell team to attack the United States, he develops deep relationships of friendship and love with the very people he was sent to destroy. Ali is overwhelmed with a building inner-conflict and the audience follows him as he navigates his soul to the surprise ending of the film. This tense political thriller/drama is vividly brought to life by a powerful international cast: Ben Youcef (Munich), Candice Coke (Tyler Perry's Temptation), Harry Lennix (Superman, Man of Steel), Tara Holt (Californication), Josh Pence (Gangster Squad), Sharon Ferguson (Quarantine), Said Faraj (Greenzone), Zuhair Haddad (The Pursuit of Happiness), and Seymour Cassel (John Cassavetes' Faces). Although the film is truly independent because of its budget and non-studio affiliation, it is none-the-less a powerful force with a voice in today's social and artistic landscape.