Far from Men (2015)

Far from Men Poster
Original Title: Loin des hommes

A French teacher in a small Algerian village during the Algerian War forms an unexpected bond with a dissident who is ordered to be turned in to the authorities.

Film Overview
"Far from Men" is a French drama movie directed by David Oelhoffen, based upon an unique by Albert Camus titled "The Guest". Set in Algeria in 1954, the film intertwines themes of commitment, trust, and the obscurity of justice in the middle of the Algerian war. The film was launched in 2015, featuring Viggo Mortensen as Daru, a modest schoolteacher, and Reda Kateb as Mohamed, a local Algerian farmer apprehended for apparently murdering his cousin.

Plot Summary
The film begins by laying out the serene lifestyle of Daru, played by Viggo Mortensen. As a schoolteacher, he leads an isolated presence teetering in between his French heritage and loyalty to his embraced Algerian house. His quiet privacy is disrupted when he is contacted us to provide Mohamed, played by Reda Kateb, who is a prisoner unwillingly handed over by local authorities. Daru is given directions to carry out the prisoner to a different city where Mohamed will stand trial for murder.

Character Development
Daru's reluctance in executing this job comes from his indignation towards the concept of imposing the oppressive French colonial rule. However, as he endeavors deeper into the war-ridden countryside with Mohamed, he begins to understand the complexities of the dispute tearing the nation apart.

Likewise, Mohamed's character evolves throughout their journey. He appears inspired by an air of quiet resignation, wanting to face his penalty to secure his household from any retribution. Despite the language barrier and cultural distinctions, Daru and Mohamed develop a profound bond, exploring styles of trust, humankind, and understanding in the middle of clashing nationwide commitments.

Dispute and Resolution
The storyline magnifies as the duo confronts multiple hazards together, consisting of violent rebels, unforgiving weather, and treacherous terrains. Their friendship is tested as they navigate through traumatic situations, provoking an inner conflict in Daru as he faces his duty and the extreme realities of the Algerian war.

The movie reaches its climax in the city of Tinguit. Here, Mohamed faces his fate, and Daru needs to make a choice that might cost him his life. The final scenes of "Far from Men" underscore the styles of redemption, sacrifice and the blurring boundaries of right and incorrect.

Crucial Acclaim
"Far from Men" was well received by critics and viewers alike for its remarkable story and the efficiencies of the lead stars. In particular, Viggo Mortensen's representation of Daru, the hesitant deliverer in a foreign land, was praised for its depth and nuance. The stunning shots of the Algerian landscape, combined with the extreme efficiencies, added a haunting environment that well communicated the distress and discomfort brought about by the war.

In conclusion, "Far from Men" is a poignant expedition of the intricacies of human nature, justice, and internal conflict set against the backdrop of the Algerian war. It provides a captivating narrative that, although grounded in a specific political context, transcends temporality and location, hence speaking to a universal human condition.

Top Cast

  • Viggo Mortensen (small)
    Viggo Mortensen
    Daru
  • Reda Kateb (small)
    Reda Kateb
    Mohamed
  • Djemel Barek (small)
    Djemel Barek
    Slimane
  • Vincent Martin (small)
    Vincent Martin
    Balducci
  • Nicolas Giraud (small)
    Nicolas Giraud
    Lieutenant Le Tallec
  • Jean-Jérôme Esposito (small)
    Jean-Jérôme Esposito
    Francis
  • Yann Goven (small)
    Yann Goven
    Rene
  • Antoine Régent (small)
    Antoine Régent
    Claude
  • Sonia Amori (small)
    Sonia Amori
    La prostituée
  • Antoine Laurent (small)
    Antoine Laurent
    Le soldat français
  • Ángela Molina (small)
    Ángela Molina
    Señorita Martínez