The Unknown Hero (2016): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 2016, The Unknown Hero is a drama, war and thriller film directed by Hadj Ali Menad, running about 90 minutes.

What it’s about. In the midst of the Algerian war for independence, a group of fighters is trapped in the mountains, surrounded by the colonial army. Cut off from their allies, they have only one hope: to transmit a vital message to save their unit. But crossing enemy lines is a suicide mission. Their only chance lies with an unexpected messenger: a courageous dog named Messaoud. Carrying the letter attached to his collar, he embarks on a perilous crossing, braving the hostile nature and the dangers of war. But when he is captured by the enemy, his courage and instinct become his only weapons. Prisoner, hunted, he must risk everything to escape and accomplish his mission before it is too late. Sacrifice, bravery and hope mingle in this breathtaking odyssey where the humblest of heroes can change the course of history. The Unknown Hero, a moving film which won first prize at the Arab World Festival in 2017.

Who’s in it. The Unknown Hero stars Michel Biel as Soldat Duval, Denis Braccini as Sergent, Eric Chevallier as Colonel and Mohamed Bachir Bensalem, among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 10.0/10, The Unknown Hero sits among the best-reviewed titles in the catalogue.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch The Unknown Hero page.

If you liked it. Fans of The Unknown Hero tend to enjoy The Shawshank Redemption, The Godfather, Schindler's List and The Godfather Part II.