Algiers (1938)

In John Cromwell's ALGIERS, based on the 1937 adaptation of Roger D'Ashelbe's popular French novel PEPE LE MOKO, a renowned thief has been hiding from police in the Casbah, the native quarter of Algiers, for more than two years. Inspectors Slimaine and Louvaine (Joseph Calleia and Walter Kinsgsford) see Pepe Le Moko (Charles Boyer) repeatedly, but until he strays outside the Casbah they are powerless to arrest him. Then a member of Pepe's inner circle, worried about his own safety, rats Pepe's hideout location to the police while simultaneously warning Pepe about the breach. Pepe and numerous bystanders, including attractive Gaby (Hedy Lamarr), are wounded as the band of thieves narrowly escapes the police. Gaby and Pepe begin to fall in love as the schemes to ensnare the master criminal grow deeper and more devious. This suspenseful romantic thriller, a Hollywood classic, features fine performances, a quality score, and excellent cinematography by James Wong Howe.