Le Grand carnaval (1983)
Directed by Alexandre Arcady

Film Review

Le Grand carnaval is unusual in that it presents the lighter side of war, using this as a backdrop to a poignant personal drama.  Graphic images of war are kept well out of the picture, and indeed the tragedy of war gets little more than a footnote at the end of the film.  Indeed, the war is the least important part of this film, but it provides a colourful backdrop which affords some memorable scenes, nostalgia-laden with period music.

What the film lacks in characterisation and structure is more than made up for by some stunning location photography.  There are also some terrific performances from Philippe Noiret and Roger Hanin.

The film presages the terrible schism which was to tear Algeria apart shortly after the war, ultimately leading to the foundation of the Algerian state.  The film does not dwell on this, but references to it abound, and the French ill-treatment of the local Arab population appears distinctly shocking.  The tragedy in this film lies in the fact that the reconciliation which takes place between the film's central characters is not mirrored in the society around them.

Film Synopsis

In November 1942, American troops land in North Africa at the height of World War II to make ready for the liberation of Europe.  The arrival of the soldiers is met with joy and festivity by the locals, especially those in the Algerian town of Tadjira, where the welcome invasion is to be marked by a jubilant carnival.  Most affected by this unexpected upheaval are the town's mayor, Étienne Labrouche, and his childhood friend Léon Castelli, the owner of a popular café.  The latter is easily lured into a lucrative arrangement with a young American officer Walter Giammanca, who can supply valuable commodities for the black market.  The arrival of the beautiful Sylvette Landry will stir things up even more, especially when Étienne falls madly in love with her.  When the liaison is discovered by the mayor's wife, Armande, Léon comes to the aid of Sylvette by offering her work in his café.  Before they know it Étienne and Léon find they have become bitter rivals...