À mon âge je me cache encore pour fumer

I STILL HIDE TO SMOKE is an impressive showcase for the acting talents of Hiam Abbass, best known to American audiences probably from her role as Ramy's mother in the dramedy series RAMY. Here she is the fiercely protective lead masseuse and "mother hen" of her hammam, a spa for women and children that is one of the few safe spaces for women an increasingly fundamentalist Algeria circa 1995.

Within the walls of the hammam there is a pregnant relative hiding from an abusive man, a bridal party, a man crazy assistant masseuse, a matchmaker, two former friends on opposite ends of a political/religious divide and more. In short, a whole community of Algiers women seeking comfort and freedom within Fatima's walls. The movie does not transcend or reimagine its theatrical origins, but it works and the performances are terrific. The dangers of the misogynist world these women inhabit are not at all shortchanged, but the poetic ending (which might come out of left field to many) brought a tear to my eye and felt just right to me. Definitely worth seeking out, preferably in a format without commercial interruption.

This is must se. I'm paralyzed..... Very good plot, insight into the life of women during those difficult times. Great, believable characters and really really good cast. You won't regret it

This is by far the most ORIGINAL Fresh Natural "Thing" I have experienced in years! This Director and actors together are GENIUSES! Thank you very much for this MASTERPIECE! This is by far OSCAR candidate!

It discusses a lot of issues with simple depiction. Very thoughtful movie with nicely done casting.

The film is truly captivating. From the very beginning, you're struck by the raw intensity of its realism. It paints an intimate, unfiltered portrait of Algerian women's lives during a harsh and complex period. The storytelling combines powerful emotions with a layer of dark comedy that both moves you and makes you laugh sometimes at the same time.

A special mention goes to the brilliant Hiam Abbass. She consistently impresses me with her ability to embody the Arab woman strong, complex, and universal. Whether through accent, emotion, or expression, she breaks all borders. She doesn't just act she belongs.

This was my first time watching an Algerian film, and it left a lasting impression. I absolutely loved it.