Capharnaum★★★★★

Born in a life of poverty, abuse, and social indifference, Zain is a loving brother who is tired of the endless fight for survival. A boy forced into labour and robbed of his childhood has realised significant things in life. He is exhausted and wants to make a difference at least for his own family.

Zain is extraordinarily responsible for his age. He looks after his siblings and cares immensely despite their penury. He loves deeply despite the emptiness in his heart. The same couldn’t be observed from his parents’ reckless disposition, numerous irresponsible childbirths and all the while subjecting their children into selling drugs to earn the family’s living.

Capharnaum is exceptional in its storytelling of humanity and the surrounding perplexities around culture and history, the constant changes and evolution, and how traditions are not solutions applicable to present times. The patriarchal mentality is no longer appropriate in this era because the global financial state has shifted. Men and women both need to work, and the world is leaning towards universal equality in gender.

Another notable observation in the film is Zain’s sister Sahar who at a very young age forced into marriage out of necessity. Sadly tradition morally permits it as well. As Zain sees these problems, he can’t help but take matters into his own hands. Unfortunately, he is too little, but there must be someone out there that would listen. Because these crimes against children which began hundreds of years ago, as Zain fights, must be changed and corrected.

Such an astonishing film created not only for the arts but for the children going through the same hardships. An outstanding screenplay and direction by Nadine Labaki- highly deserving of its awards and recognition. In addition, the main characters’ outstanding acting skills and delivery made the film genuinely compelling. I can go on writing about this film and say endless praise about it, but I will only tell how rare this movie is and truly unforgettable.