Algiers

A young girl’s abduction sends shockwaves through the city of Algiers, igniting fear, anger, and suspicion among its residents. As furious locals attempt to take justice into their own hands, two unlikely figures are drawn into the case: Dr. Dounia Assam, a brilliant psychiatrist specialized in trauma, and police inspector Sami Sadoudi. Together, they must confront not only the crime itself, but also the lingering demons of the past. Afterwards the director will join the audience for a Q&A.

Set against a backdrop of rising social tensions amidst water shortages, the investigation quickly collides with personal and political obstacles. Inspired by true events, Algiers is a gripping psychological thriller that is not afraid to delve into the painful spot between justice and survival in a community on edge.

The film marks the feature debut of Algerian-French filmmaker Chakib Taleb-Bendiab, an award-winning screenwriter, director, and composer whose short films Sang Froid (2013) and Black Spirit (2018) have been celebrated at international festivals. With Algiers, Algeria’s official entry for the 2025 Academy Awards, Taleb-Bendiab establishes himself as a bold new voice in world cinema.

Algiers premiered at major festivals including the Fribourg International Film Festival, El Gouna Film Festival, International Film Festival of Kerala, and the International Film Festival of India, among others.

After the screening, director Chakib Taleb-Bendiab will join us for a conversation about the making of the film, its themes, and the realities that inspired it.