Watch Painting My Algeria

Painting My Algeria is a 2018 Algerian movie directed by Lydia Chanjour. The movie, which stars Djahida Houadef, is a drama that follows a young woman's journey of self-discovery and self-realization in Algeria during the civil war of the 1990s. The movie's main character, Fettouma (Djahida Houadef), is a young woman who is struggling to find her place in the world. She lives in a small village that has been torn apart by the civil war. Her parents are traditional and strict, and she feels suffocated by the limitations they place on her life. She longs to break free and pursue her passion for painting, but she knows that her parents would never allow it.

One day, Fettouma decides to run away from home and move to the city of Algiers to attend art school. The city is a stark contrast to her village, where life is more liberal and cosmopolitan. Fettouma thrives in the new environment and finds inspiration in the city's bustling street life and diverse culture. However, she also meets new challenges, including prejudice and discrimination.

While attending art school, Fettouma meets a fellow student, Youssef, who is also an aspiring artist. The two quickly become friends and start to fall in love. However, their relationship is forbidden, as Youssef is a Muslim and Fettouma is a Christian. Despite this, they continue to see each other in secret and share their dreams of pursuing their passions.

As their relationship deepens, Fettouma and Youssef become more involved in the political unrest that is sweeping through Algeria. They attend protests and rallies, and they start to become disillusioned with the government's corruption and brutality. However, their involvement takes a dangerous turn when Youssef is arrested and imprisoned for his activism.

Fettouma is devastated by Youssef's arrest, but she refuses to give up on their dream of a better life. She continues to paint and expresses her feelings of sorrow and anger through her art. Her paintings become a powerful symbol of the struggle for freedom and justice in Algeria, and she becomes a voice for the people who are suffering under the government's oppression.

The movie is a poignant and emotional depiction of the human cost of political repression and violence. It portrays the resilience and courage of ordinary people who refuse to give up on their dreams, even in the face of overwhelming odds. Djahida Houadef gives a powerful performance as a young woman who finds her voice and her calling in the midst of chaos and tragedy.

With its beautiful cinematography and sophisticated storytelling, Painting My Algeria is a powerful movie that sheds light on the struggles and triumphs of the Algerian people. It is a must-see for anyone who is interested in human rights, social justice, and the transformative power of art.