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Deep Dive: The Fence (2003)

Film Lens

The Fence
In 'The Fence,' Tariq Teguia presents the emotional landscape of young people in Bab El Oued, Algeria, following the Algerian civil war that lasted from 1991 to 2002. The film uses a series of fixed shots to capture the anger and frustration of these youths, who bear the psychological scars of the violence that affected their lives and community. Their testimonies are interspersed with contemplative scenes of driving through the area, reflecting themes of confinement and a longing for a different future. The film runs for 24 minutes and is produced in both Arabic and French, showcasing the complexities of Algerian society during a tumultuous period. Teguia's approach emphasizes the stark realities faced by a generation impacted by war, as they navigate their desires for a better life amidst the remnants of their past.

Why Watch

  • •Meet the youth of Bab El Oued post-civil war.
  • •Find out how war shapes personal identities.
  • •See the emotional impact of violence in Algeria.

Did You Know

•The film was released in 2003, just a year after the civil war ended.
•It features young people from Bab El Oued, a coastal suburb of Algiers.
•The Algerian civil war lasted for 11 years, from 1991 to 2002.
•The film has a duration of 24 minutes.

Perfect For

Algerian historyPost-war narrativesYouth perspectives