I Saw Ben Barka Get Killed

Charles Berling stars as an unlikely gangster in this hard-hitting political thriller. Set in the 1960s, amidst a backdrop of social and political upheaval, Georges Figon, a renowned criminal, attempts to make a documentary about decolonisation. The film was to be directed by Georges Franju, written by Marguerite Duras and Ben Barka himself was to be heavily involved as the historical consultant. However, the mysterious disappearance and alleged execution of Ben Barka draws us deeper and deeper into the web of political and criminal turmoil, which fast becomes an increasingly dangerous game for everyone involved. Writer and director, Serge Le Péron, leads us into this world with flair and expertise, adopting a stylish film noir approach to the cinematography and providing well-sustained suspense throughout. With first-class performances from all the cast, this ‘film policier’ is both an homage to 1960s French thrillers as well as a modern take on one of the most intriguing stories to come out of France during that period.

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