Algiers

This 1938 offering, nominated for 4 Oscars, is notable for inspiring two great cultural icons, the title for CASABLANCA and Chuck Jone's adored skunk Pepe le Pu who is fashioned after Charles Boyer's portrayal of Pepe le Moko. As much as we complain of Hollywood's obsession with redoing films this is hardly a new trend as ALGIERS is a remake of the French film made a year earlier which takes it's name from the lead character. It's a stunning piece of work, well shot, amazingly acted and complexly written. Unique also in that we cheer for the supposed bad guy throughout. Hedy Lamarr is there in all of her glory making this one fans of CASABLANCA should most certainly track down.