Free Men (Les hommes libres)

Year: 2011
Country: FRANCE
Run Time: 99 minutes

Based on true historical events, FREE MEN tells the frequently forgotten yet inspirational story of many North Africans during World War II. When the Germans occupied Paris in the early 1940s, there was a growing underground French Resistance that eventually included immigrated Algerians who sought to fight against colonialism and fascism worldwide. Such is the story of Younes, an Algerian Muslim working in the black market who is forced to spy on a Parisian mosque after being arrested by corrupt French police. Once there, he discovers a world of Arabic men and women who are committed to fighting the Nazi regime. After establishing unexpected friendships with both Si Kaddour Ben Ghabrit, the founder and rector of the mosque, and Salim Halali, a Jewish Algerian singer (both real-life historical figures), Younes decides to join the resistance, ultimately becoming an ardent freedom fighter himself. Starring the talented Tahar Rahim, FREE MEN reminds us of the powerful struggle of so many men and women throughout history to be free. (In French and Arabic with subtitles) – M.M.

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