Aliénations

Algeria is a young state with a long history. The 20th century has been marked by unprecedented social and cultural upheavals that have called into question value and belief systems that took a century to forge. The film examines the illnesses afflicting Algerians today as they attempt to deal with religious, political, economic and family turmoil. ‘For the last few years, I’ve been wanting to make this film with you, father, about the suffering of the mentally ill in Algeria. You devoted your life to relieving the suffering of our sick people and treating them. I have decided to observe your team’s work at the Djebel Ouahch hospital in Constantine, which first saw the light of day thanks to your obstinate determination. Today, the young psychiatrists that you trained breathe life into this heritage by continuing your work with sick people. With them, I dedicate this film to you.’ (Malek Bensmaïl)