From Saint-Denis to Algiers

French-Algerian history is explored in these stories of exile, belonging and memory. France-Algeria 1986. Director Sarah Maldoror. With Smain, Lounes Tadjairt, Anne Caudry, Maurice Chevit. 88min. Digital (Restored with the support of INA). With English subtitles France 1977. Director Sarah Maldoror. 7min. Video. With English subtitles Total film programme running time 95min Young Omar travels to Algiers to discover his family origins. During the crossing, his passport is lost, and he finds himself like an Unidentified Arab (ANI) – tossed about on the Mediterranean. The film humorously questions identity and the sense of belonging. Abbaye royale de St Denis explores all facets of the Parisian Gothic Basilica, which features a cathedral and a necropolis – the latter containing the tombs of French kings who ruled from the 10th to 19th centuries. The screening of From Saint-Denis to Algiers on Thursday 17 September will be introduced by Professor Arthur Asseraf, University of Cambridge.