Communist, anti-colonialist, right-wing extremist? What convictions guide the moral mind of
Jacques Vergès?
Barbet Schroeder takes us down history's darkest paths in his attempt to illuminate the mystery behind this enigmatic figure. As a young lawyer during the Algerian war, Vergès espoused the anti-colonialist cause and defended
Djamila Bouhired, 'la Pasionaria,' who bore her country's hopes for freedom on her shoulders and was sentenced to death for planting bombs in cafes. He obtained her release, married her and had two children with her.
Then suddenly, at the height of an illustrious career, Vergès disappeared without trace for eight years. He re-emerged from his mysterious absence, taking on the defense of terrorists of all kinds, from
Magdalena Kopp and Anis Naccache to Carlos the Jackal. He represented Historical monsters such as Nazi lieutenant Klaus Barbie. From the lawyer's Inflammatory and provocative cases to his controversial terrorist links,
Barbet Schroeder follows the winding trail left by this 'devil's advocate,' as he forges his unique path in law and politics.
Conrad Black should have hired him.
Truly remarkable. This guy would defend Hitler and George Bush but only if Bush pleads quilty. ;-) 5 Stars.