24 September 2013, 11:17
KPeteAs I wrote in an earlier thread, I highy recommend 'The Battle of Algiers'; it is particularly well made and so realistic it was required viewing for many years in the unconventional warfare program (the 'Q' Course) at the JFK Special Warfare Center. Created in an almost documentary style, it starred at least one actor who had actually served with the Légion étrangère (French Foreign Legion) in Algiers during the last days of French control (he's featured on the poster below and later starred in the original film production 'The Day of the Jackal' - also as an ex-Legionnaire).
The movie provides keen insights into what motivates guerilla, terrorist and other 'freedom' movements in locations like Iraq, Afghanistan, and Syria. I encourage any of you with an interest in Northern Africa, and insurgencies in particular, to watch this movie and see how little things change.
On a more macabre and sinister note, back in 1932 a remake of 'West of Zanzibar' was made entitled 'Kongo' starring Walter Huston (co-star of 'Treasure of Sierra Madre' and father of director/actor John Huston), Lupe Vélez, and Virginia Bruce. This is a rarely seen movie and only recently has it occasionally appeared on Turner Classic Movies.
'Kongo' is a bizarre, occasionally titillating, somewhat camp, but always disturbing melodrama set in a steamy, malarial African rainforest. Huston plays 'Deadlegs' Flint, a madman with elements of Conrad's Kurtz, who lost the use of his legs during a brutal fight with a man named Gordon. It offers a disturbing portrait of a bitter, crippled, and insane African ivory trader who's rage and compulsion for revenge compels him to torture - mentally and physically - all those around him.
He terrifies the local tribesmen into submission using magic tricks to feign knowledge of voodoo and is even more depraved in his treatment of the few Westerners who are trapped in his employ or by circumstance. The movie centers around his horrifyingly elaborate and bestial plans to exact payback against his nemesis. The ending is classic.
Filmed before the censorship code came into effect in the early '30's, it's a wonder that MGM green-lighted a movie this risqué to be made. For film buffs, it was produced by MGM in the same year they created their notorious movie 'Freaks'.
'Kongo' is available on DVD but surprisingly can be watched from the comfort of your computer (in 11 parts) on YouTube: 'Kongo' on youTube. Check it out!
The film also stars Roger Moore. Lee Marvin's performance was outstanding, as always.