There’s something truly magical about standing amidst the ancient ruins of Algeria, camera in hand, ready to capture stories that have been etched into stone for millennia. As a film fixer in Algeria, I’ve had the privilege of guiding crews through these incredible historical sites, each with its own unique challenges and rewards. Here’s a glimpse behind the scenes of what it’s like to film in some of Algeria’s most awe-inspiring locations, while working closely with local communities, preserving the integrity of these sites, and ensuring all safety measures and permits are in place.

The Majestic Ruins of Timgad

Our journey begins in Timgad, often referred to as the “Pompeii of North Africa.” The first time I led a film crew through this ancient Roman city, I was struck by the sheer scale of the place. The grid of streets, the grand archways, the remnants of a civilization that once thrived here—it all seemed to come alive under the golden light of the setting sun.

We arrived early in the morning, the air still cool with a hint of desert chill. The crew was eager, setting up cameras and equipment as the first rays of sunlight began to illuminate the ruins. The challenge here wasn’t just the size of the site, but the delicate balance between capturing its grandeur and respecting its fragile state. We worked closely with local authorities and historians to ensure that our presence didn’t disturb the site. Lightweight gear and portable setups minimized our impact, and we were constantly mindful of where we stepped and what we touched.

Working with the local community was key to our success. The people of Timgad are proud of their heritage, and we were fortunate to have their support. They shared stories passed down through generations, providing insights that helped us capture the true essence of the site. We also made sure to secure all necessary filming permits well in advance, a process made smoother by our strong relationships with local officials. This not only ensured that we were operating within the law but also helped us avoid any unexpected disruptions.

As the sun climbed higher, casting long shadows across the columns and arches, we faced the harsh midday light. This is where the skill of our cinematographer truly shone. Using diffusers and reflectors, we softened the light, creating a more even, golden hue that highlighted the textures of the ancient stone without washing out the details.

Timgad is a place that demands respect, not just for its history but for the challenges it presents. Every shot required careful planning, every movement was calculated to ensure we left no trace behind. By the time we wrapped up, the sun was beginning to dip below the horizon, casting a warm, amber glow over the city. It was a long day, but as we packed up, there was a shared sense of accomplishment—we had captured not just images, but the soul of Timgad.

The Enigmatic Tassili n’Ajjer

From the Roman ruins of Timgad, our next adventure took us to the Tassili n’Ajjer, a vast plateau in the Sahara known for its ancient rock art. Filming here was like stepping into another world—a world where art and nature blend seamlessly across the sandstone cliffs and hidden caves.

The journey to Tassili was an adventure in itself. We traveled for days, crossing endless stretches of desert, navigating through rocky terrain, and finally ascending the plateau. The air was thin and dry, the silence broken only by the occasional gust of wind. As we set up our camp, the crew was struck by the stark beauty of the landscape—the way the rocks seemed to glow in the evening light, the sense of timelessness that pervaded the air.

Filming in Tassili presented its own unique set of challenges. The rock art, some of which dates back over 12,000 years, is incredibly delicate. We had to be extremely careful with our equipment, avoiding any direct contact with the rock surfaces. We used cranes and long lenses to capture the intricate details of the art from a distance, ensuring we didn’t disturb the site. Working closely with local guides, who are custodians of these ancient sites, was crucial. They helped us navigate the terrain and understand the cultural significance of what we were filming, ensuring that we respected the sacred nature of these artworks.

The light in Tassili is unlike anywhere else I’ve filmed. The harsh desert sun, combined with the reflective surfaces of the rocks, created an intense brightness that was both challenging and inspiring. We filmed early in the morning and late in the afternoon, taking advantage of the softer, more diffuse light. As the sun set, the rocks took on a deep, rich hue, and the shadows of the ancient carvings seemed to dance on the stone.

One evening, after a long day of filming, we sat around the campfire, watching the stars emerge in the clear desert sky. There was a profound sense of connection—to the land, to the history we were documenting, and to each other. Tassili n’Ajjer is more than just a filming location; it’s a place that touches the soul, a place where the past and present collide in the most beautiful way.

The Timeless Beauty of Djemila

Our final destination was Djemila, another Roman site, but one with a character all its own. Nestled in the mountains, Djemila is smaller and more intimate than Timgad, but no less impressive. The city’s remains, including the grand basilica and the intricate mosaics, offer a glimpse into the lives of the people who once called this place home.

Djemila’s mountain setting posed different challenges. The weather here is unpredictable, with sudden changes in temperature and light. On the day we arrived, the morning was cool and misty, the ruins shrouded in a soft fog that gave the site an almost mystical quality. As the fog lifted, it revealed the city in all its glory, the sunlight catching on the mosaics and casting intricate patterns on the ground.

The crew worked quickly, capturing the site before the light changed again. We used a combination of handheld cameras and stabilizers to navigate the uneven terrain, allowing us to move smoothly through the site and capture its beauty from every angle. The mosaics, in particular, were a challenge to film. Their intricate designs required close-up shots, but we also wanted to capture their place within the larger context of the city. It was a delicate balance, but one that paid off when we saw the final footage.

Safety was a top priority here, as the mountainous terrain could be treacherous, especially in wet conditions. We ensured that the crew was equipped with proper footwear and that all equipment was securely set up to prevent any accidents. Working with local experts, we also made sure that our filming activities did not disturb the site or its surroundings.

As the day wore on, the light grew harsher, and we switched to filming the interiors of the basilica. The cool, shadowed spaces provided a welcome respite from the sun, and the acoustics of the ancient stone walls added a new dimension to the filming experience. By the time we finished, the sun was low in the sky, casting long shadows across the ruins. We packed up our gear and made our way back down the mountain, tired but exhilarated by the day’s work.

Working with Local Communities and Managing Permits

At each of these sites, the involvement of local communities was invaluable. From sharing stories and historical insights to helping us navigate the often-complex permitting process, the locals played a key role in the success of our filming. Respecting their knowledge and working closely with them not only ensured smooth operations but also enriched the filming experience.

Securing permits for filming in Algeria’s historical sites is a process that requires careful planning and strong relationships with local authorities. As a film fixer, it’s my responsibility to manage this process, ensuring that all legal requirements are met and that the crew can focus on their work without worrying about bureaucratic hurdles. This involves a lot of preparation, from obtaining the necessary documents to coordinating with local officials on the ground.

Safety is another critical aspect of filming in these ancient sites. We always ensure that the crew is aware of the risks, whether it’s the unstable ruins of a Roman city or the rugged terrain of a desert plateau. Proper safety measures, such as using appropriate gear and maintaining constant communication with the team, are non-negotiable.

Conclusion

Filming in Algeria’s historical sites is not just about capturing images; it’s about capturing the essence of places that have stood the test of time. Each location presents its own set of challenges, from the harsh desert sun to the delicate balance of ancient art and modern technology. But with careful planning, respect for the sites, and a little bit of creative problem-solving, the rewards are immense.

As a film fixer, it’s my job to ensure that every shoot runs smoothly, that every shot is perfect, and that we leave no trace behind. But it’s also my job to ensure that the crew connects with the places we film, that they understand the significance of what we’re capturing. Filming in Algeria is more than just a job; it’s a journey through history, a journey that I’m proud to be a part of.