Machaho is an Algerian film directed by Belkacem Hadjadj, released in 1995 and distributed in France in 1996. Shot in Kabyle and Arabic, the drama deals with honour, vengeance and tradition in a Kabylie village.[1]
In the mountains of Kabylie, Arezki, a peasant, finds a young man (Larbi) dying, buried in the snow. He brings him home and cares for him through the winter. While recovering, the young man has a secret relationship with Arezki's daughter. Larbi eventually leaves; a few months later the daughter is pregnant. To restore his family's honour, Arezki sets out in search of vengeance.[2]
The film was produced by Les Films Sur La Place. Shooting took place in Algeria, in the Kabylie region; cinematography credits include Georges Lechaptois and Rachid Merabtine.[3]
Release and festivals
Machaho was screened at the Montpellier Mediterranean Film Festival in 1995 and at several international festivals (Montpellier, Fribourg, San Francisco, among others). Its French theatrical release is listed as 19 June 1996.[6][7]
Reception
The film received attention on the festival circuit and has been described as a "tragedy of vengeance" paying tribute to Algerian women. Reviews and festival notes present it as an important first feature for Belkacem Hadjadj, filmed in Tamazight (Kabyle) and Arabic.[8]
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