Breakdown

Synopsis

Breakdown (original title: Rupture), directed by Abdelkrim Zellal and released in 1982, is a gripping drama that explores the psychological turmoil of its protagonist as he navigates a series of personal and societal challenges. Set against a backdrop of socio-political unrest, the film delves deeply into themes of identity, resilience, and the human condition. Zellal’s direction combines a raw, intimate storytelling style with compelling visuals, engaging the audience in a thought-provoking journey. The narrative unfolds with a measured pace, focusing on character development and the emotional conflicts that mirror larger tensions, making Breakdown a poignant reflection on struggle and transformation.

Cast

• Abdelkrim Zellal

• Mohamed Haimour

• Charef Daouadji

• Fatima Nadji

• Abdelkader Belmokadem

• 

  Allel Bachali

Reviews

Critical reception to Breakdown has been mixed, highlighting both its artistic ambition and certain narrative limitations. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds an audience score of 64%, indicating moderate approval but a lack of widespread mainstream appeal. Critics have praised Abdelkrim Zellal's direction and the film's evocative cinematography. One review from The New York Times commended the film for its "unflinching portrayal of personal breakdown against a broader socio-political canvas," while also noting that "the pacing may challenge viewers accustomed to more conventional narratives." IMDb ratings reflect a similar sentiment, with an average rating of 6.7/10 based on user reviews, many appreciating the film's thematic depth but mentioning a slow plot progression. Metacritic scores are not available for this release, which is typical for films from that era and geographic region. Overall, Breakdown is recognized as a culturally significant work that offers insightful commentary, though it remains primarily appealing to audiences interested in arthouse cinema and introspective drama rather than mainstream commercial success.