The Theme Of Duty And Honor In Chocolat And The Battle Of Algiers

In this essay, I explore the themes of gender role and power dynamics, in the films “Chocolat” and “Sugar Cane Alley.” While also analyzing the theme of Duty and Honor within the films “Indigenes” and “The Battle of Algiers.” In this analysis, I aim to interpret and make a connections and comparisons on each film and its theme.

The film “Chocolat” examines a colonial power structure in which the French colonisers are in total control while the Africans who work for them are oppressed and degraded. The way the European characters casually push their cultural traditions and beliefs on the African employees, frequently with little regard for their welfare, draws attention to this power dynamic.

In “Chocolat” directed by Claire Denis, she vividly

“The Battle of Algiers” depicts the challenges of soldiers fighting for their country’s independence, while “Indigenes” shows the struggles of soldiers fighting for a colonial power. Both films emphasises the effects of war on individuals in different ways. Ali La Pointe and Abdelkader, respectively, from “The Battle of Algiers” and “Indigenes”, represent the concepts of duty and honour in various ways. Soldier Ali La Pointe backs the cause for Algeria, whereas Abdelkader backs the cause for France. Although both people are willing to sacrifice their lives to carry out their duties, their motivations are different. The cost of duty and honour is demonstrated through the specific circumstances of both films, where the characters must make difficult choices. In “Indigenes” the scene when Said and Sergent are shot after being blown up by a bazooka, and in “The Battle of Algiers” the scene of the three women from the FLN, who carry out the bombings in public areas filled with civilians, are both powerful scenes that emphasises the human sacrifices and personal cost of

In one particularly powerful scene, Said confronts his superior officer about the discriminatory and mistreatment of his fellow North African soldiers. Said reaction and confrontation displays the sacrifices they have made and the need for proper recognition and respect.

In the film Indigenes, Rachid Bouchareb tries to convey to the viewers the value of honoring the efforts and sacrifices made by these soldiers and also present a nuanced pictures of French colonial history. One of the main characters, “Said” shows his determination to fight for France and demonstrate his citizenship even as he is mistreated and receives little acknowledgement for his