Intimate Enemies (2007)
A raw and morally complex French war drama set against the brutal backdrop of the Algerian War of Independence.
Intimate Enemies - Movie Information
- Original Title: L'Ennemi intime
- Release Year: 2007
- Directed by: Florent-Emilio Siri
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama, War, History
- Runtime: 1h 48m
- Original Language: French
- Spoken Languages: French
- Release Date (Theatrical): October 3, 2007 (France), October 2, 2009 (United States), July 25, 2008 (Germany - 16), October 3, 2007 (Italy), November 19, 2015 (South Korea - 15)
- Alternative Titles: Intimate Enemies (DE), l' ennemi intime (ES), Giorni di guerra (IT)
- Production Companies: Les Films du Kiosque, SND, Agora Films, France 2 Cinéma
- Production Countries: France, Morocco
Intimate Enemies - Plot
A drama following a French platoon during Algeria's war of independence.
Intimate Enemies - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see the harrowing world of Intimate Enemies unfold:
The scars of war last forever
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Intimate Enemies - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Florent-Emilio Siri
Main Cast
- Benoît Magimel
- Albert Dupontel
- Mohamed Fellag
- Lounès Tazairt
- Abdelhafid Metalsi
- Vincent Rottiers
- Lounès Machene
- Adrien Saint-Joré
- Guillaume Gouix
- Aurélien Recoing
Writers
- Patrick Rotman
Producers
- François Kraus
- Denis Pineau-Valencienne
Intimate Enemies - FAQs
What is Intimate Enemies about?
Intimate Enemies plunges into the Algerian War of Independence through the eyes of a French platoon torn between duty and conscience. A young idealistic lieutenant and a hardened sergeant clash over tactics and morality as the brutal guerrilla conflict forces every soldier to confront impossible choices in the mountains of Algeria.
Is Intimate Enemies based on a true story?
While Intimate Enemies is not based on one specific true story, it draws heavily from documented historical events and testimonies of the Algerian War (1954–1962). Screenwriter Patrick Rotman, a noted historian of the conflict, grounded the film in real accounts, giving it a powerful sense of authenticity and moral weight.
Who are the main actors in Intimate Enemies?
The film stars Benoît Magimel as the idealistic Lieutenant Terrien and Albert Dupontel as the battle-scarred Sergeant Dougnac. Mohamed Fellag, Lounès Tazairt, Abdelhafid Metalsi, Vincent Rottiers, Guillaume Gouix, and Aurélien Recoing round out a strong ensemble cast.
Does Intimate Enemies show torture and war crimes?
Yes, Intimate Enemies confronts the use of torture and atrocities committed during the Algerian War with unflinching honesty. The film doesn't shy away from depicting the moral degradation that war inflicts on soldiers, making it one of the most candid French cinematic examinations of this deeply painful chapter in history.
Where can you stream Intimate Enemies?
You can watch Intimate Enemies for free on The Roku Channel, Plex, Plex Channel, and Fawesome. If you prefer to own or rent it, it's available on Apple TV Store and Fandango At Home. Plenty of options to suit however you like to watch.
Who directed Intimate Enemies and what is the runtime?
Intimate Enemies was directed by Florent-Emilio Siri, a French filmmaker known for his visceral, tension-driven storytelling. The film runs 1 hour and 48 minutes — long enough to fully immerse you in the psychological and physical toll of the Algerian War without overstaying its welcome.
How was Intimate Enemies received by critics?
Intimate Enemies earned strong praise for its unflinching portrayal of the Algerian War and the performances of Benoît Magimel and Albert Dupontel. Critics highlighted its moral complexity and historical honesty, comparing it favorably to other great anti-war films. It was France's submission for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 2008.
What are similar movies to Intimate Enemies?
If Intimate Enemies resonated with you, check out Father & Soldier (2023), another French film set during a colonial-era conflict, The Forgotten Battle (2021), and Pork Chop Hill (1959). War Hunt (1962) and WILL (2023) also explore the psychological cost of combat in similarly compelling ways.
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