49 reviews
Out in the Dark (2012)
Director Ang Lee made Brokeback Mountain,despite its tragedy, into a beautiful picture: scenic, romantic,and even lyrical. In directing Out in the Dark, his first feature film, Michael Mayer did none of this. But what he did was to make a picture far more powerful in both plot and presentation. Lacking Brokeback's "niceness," Out in the Dark more than compensates by its realism.
The story, written by Mayer and Yael Shafir tells of the romantic relationship between a young well-connected Israeli lawyer and a Palestinian graduate student with an Israeli study permit. But Like Brokeback Mountain, the film avoids simply being a "gay-themed" one by situating their involvement within a wider setting. In the first place each must deal with his family: families unalike in nationality, class, language, culture and religion, but alike in not accepting their son's relationship. But broader social and political situations from which the two young men come pose even more serious obstacles, for the film locates their involvement with one another against the present-day tensions between Israel and the Palestinian Territories. In a way the individuals become symbols of these two solitudes, each wanting peace and security, but both slow to recognize that their futures are inseparably bound together.
The film does not lay blame. Nor does it examine the righteousness of either cause. But neither does it pull any punches. It is commendable in its honesty in dealing with both Palestinian fanaticism and the heavy-handed apparatus of the Israeli security services. In fact, it even suggests that in the end these play into the hands of one another. Above all, it evokes the atmosphere of fear under which ordinary citizens on both sides of the concrete walls and chain link fences must live and work daily, and fear's terrible toll on their personal lives.
Although the story is gripping, it is also gritty. There is little brightness here, an obviously deliberate choice of director Mayer and cinematographer Ran Aviad. They have created a visual palette that contributes to the film's effect and to the tension that is a constant thread throughout. As the title suggests, so much of the story must take place in the darkness, both literal and figurative. There are glimpses of tenderness, certainly in scenes of the relationship between the two guys, and to some extent when their families are shown. Still, the bright dawn that all involved must surely dream of never really breaks, and Mayer's ambiguous ending is the only honest one possible.
The film is splendidly cast. Michael Aloni as the young Israeli lawyer, Roy Schaefer, is able to display a wide range of emotions: caring, compassion, filial piety, and throughout everything, a hopefulness. He is credible in his naiveté also, trusting in family even when they fail to understand, and trusting far too much that the apparatus of the state will do what is right. But the performance that dominates the picture is the brilliant one given by Nicholas Jacob as the young Palestinian, Nimr Mashrawi. In his first film role, Jacob, whose parents are Arab-Italian and who grew up in Haifa and Nashville (and who is straight), is utterly convincing – and utterly captivating. He puts on the screen a character, who even in his youth, must confront demons that few will ever know. At the same time Jacob conveys the sense that, whatever the outcomes, Nimr will never let these demons overcome him. Jacob's handling of the part is so true to life as to be memorable.
But the good acting is not confined to the two leads. Alon Pdut does a fine job as an Israeli security official whose concern for the state has made him cold and hard, and who will use any means that serve his ends. Jamil Khouri as Nimr's brother is equally effective as a man caught up in a web of terror from which he cannot free himself. And as Roy's father, Alon Oleartchik comes across as a family head torn asunder by conflicting emotions. In a smaller but vital part, Loai Nofi as Mustafa, an outrageously gay Arab, does well in a role that must be both comic and tragic.
Dark the picture may be, but it is intense. It is a film that could easily be overlooked, but one that will leave an indelible impression when it is seen. Out in the Dark is Brokeback Mountain's worthy successor.
Out in the Dark premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 7, 2012. It has dialogue in Hebrew and Arabic with English sub-titles. It is being distributed by Breaking Glass Pictures, but a general release date has not yet been announced.
Director Ang Lee made Brokeback Mountain,despite its tragedy, into a beautiful picture: scenic, romantic,and even lyrical. In directing Out in the Dark, his first feature film, Michael Mayer did none of this. But what he did was to make a picture far more powerful in both plot and presentation. Lacking Brokeback's "niceness," Out in the Dark more than compensates by its realism.
The story, written by Mayer and Yael Shafir tells of the romantic relationship between a young well-connected Israeli lawyer and a Palestinian graduate student with an Israeli study permit. But Like Brokeback Mountain, the film avoids simply being a "gay-themed" one by situating their involvement within a wider setting. In the first place each must deal with his family: families unalike in nationality, class, language, culture and religion, but alike in not accepting their son's relationship. But broader social and political situations from which the two young men come pose even more serious obstacles, for the film locates their involvement with one another against the present-day tensions between Israel and the Palestinian Territories. In a way the individuals become symbols of these two solitudes, each wanting peace and security, but both slow to recognize that their futures are inseparably bound together.
The film does not lay blame. Nor does it examine the righteousness of either cause. But neither does it pull any punches. It is commendable in its honesty in dealing with both Palestinian fanaticism and the heavy-handed apparatus of the Israeli security services. In fact, it even suggests that in the end these play into the hands of one another. Above all, it evokes the atmosphere of fear under which ordinary citizens on both sides of the concrete walls and chain link fences must live and work daily, and fear's terrible toll on their personal lives.
Although the story is gripping, it is also gritty. There is little brightness here, an obviously deliberate choice of director Mayer and cinematographer Ran Aviad. They have created a visual palette that contributes to the film's effect and to the tension that is a constant thread throughout. As the title suggests, so much of the story must take place in the darkness, both literal and figurative. There are glimpses of tenderness, certainly in scenes of the relationship between the two guys, and to some extent when their families are shown. Still, the bright dawn that all involved must surely dream of never really breaks, and Mayer's ambiguous ending is the only honest one possible.
The film is splendidly cast. Michael Aloni as the young Israeli lawyer, Roy Schaefer, is able to display a wide range of emotions: caring, compassion, filial piety, and throughout everything, a hopefulness. He is credible in his naiveté also, trusting in family even when they fail to understand, and trusting far too much that the apparatus of the state will do what is right. But the performance that dominates the picture is the brilliant one given by Nicholas Jacob as the young Palestinian, Nimr Mashrawi. In his first film role, Jacob, whose parents are Arab-Italian and who grew up in Haifa and Nashville (and who is straight), is utterly convincing – and utterly captivating. He puts on the screen a character, who even in his youth, must confront demons that few will ever know. At the same time Jacob conveys the sense that, whatever the outcomes, Nimr will never let these demons overcome him. Jacob's handling of the part is so true to life as to be memorable.
But the good acting is not confined to the two leads. Alon Pdut does a fine job as an Israeli security official whose concern for the state has made him cold and hard, and who will use any means that serve his ends. Jamil Khouri as Nimr's brother is equally effective as a man caught up in a web of terror from which he cannot free himself. And as Roy's father, Alon Oleartchik comes across as a family head torn asunder by conflicting emotions. In a smaller but vital part, Loai Nofi as Mustafa, an outrageously gay Arab, does well in a role that must be both comic and tragic.
Dark the picture may be, but it is intense. It is a film that could easily be overlooked, but one that will leave an indelible impression when it is seen. Out in the Dark is Brokeback Mountain's worthy successor.
Out in the Dark premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 7, 2012. It has dialogue in Hebrew and Arabic with English sub-titles. It is being distributed by Breaking Glass Pictures, but a general release date has not yet been announced.
- firebolt1987
- Mar 9, 2013
- Permalink
I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this movie. Every performance was totally convincing, from the very natural and relaxed love scenes to the emotional and dramatic scenes demanded by the plot. There was no editorial prejudice regarding the gay relationship or the political situation; it was a love story, a family drama and a political thriller all in one - and every aspect was handled with intelligence and sensitivity.
I liked the use of darkness to illustrate the clandestine relationship and some of the more devious aspects of the plot, and I found it fascinating to see the difference between the families and homes of the two lovers.
I found this movie by turns moving and exciting, and it was wonderful to see some truly great acting from a cast of relative unknowns. My film of the year so far.
I liked the use of darkness to illustrate the clandestine relationship and some of the more devious aspects of the plot, and I found it fascinating to see the difference between the families and homes of the two lovers.
I found this movie by turns moving and exciting, and it was wonderful to see some truly great acting from a cast of relative unknowns. My film of the year so far.
- mistergrey-774-686972
- Aug 24, 2013
- Permalink
I've just watched Out in the Dark at an international film festival in Germany and don't know what to say ... The film really did touch my heart quite deeply. The intense love story between an Palestinian college student and an young lawyer from Israel shows the insane and crazy political situation in that region in an so far unseen way. The two actors do such a great job that you get the impression they're living their own life and love right in front of your very eyes. Beyond the film does not only draw a dire, sad and sometimes shocking picture of that region (e.g. it shows perfectly and convincingly how difficult any kind of love between someone from Palestine and Israel is) but also conveys hope - and celebrates the unique power and connecting nature of authentic love.
If you want to see one of the best and most touching and dramatic love stories (be it gay, straight or whatever) go for it and watch that masterpiece! you'll remember it for a long time!
What's more, all that has been said is even more impressive taking into account that this is the director's first full-length movie. Wow and congratulations!
All the best from Germany!
If you want to see one of the best and most touching and dramatic love stories (be it gay, straight or whatever) go for it and watch that masterpiece! you'll remember it for a long time!
What's more, all that has been said is even more impressive taking into account that this is the director's first full-length movie. Wow and congratulations!
All the best from Germany!
- carlo-steven
- Oct 4, 2012
- Permalink
"Out in the Dark" tells the extraordinary love story of a Palestinian student and an Israeli lawyer. They fight against all odds , crossing all boundaries and societal rules just for love. Words cannot describe how dramatic and emotional the film really is.
The film starts off light hearted, with the two guys meeting and hitting it off. They enjoy a good time until the painful reality starts to strike. How are they going to maintain a relationship that is separated by societal, cultural and geographical barriers? The development of the story is very well done. I feel for all the characters. I feel their pain and their sorrows. It is unusual for a gay film to touch on tough topics such as prosecution, espionage and the constant threat of death, and "Out in the Dark" does it in outstanding style. The second half of the film maintains constant thrill and urgency. I could hardly catch my breath most of the time.
The prosecution, blackmailing and surveillance portrayed in "Out in the Dark" would be unbelievably contrived in other films, but it is so believable in this context. It is because of these very harsh conditions that make Nimr and Roy's love even more precious. It is the type of love to die for. I was in synchrony and resonance with the Nimr and Roy. I was so touched by their love and dedication for each other. Just by typing these, my eyes well up again.
"Out in the Dark" is an outstanding film. I think it is a must watch, and I will check out more Israeli films when I have the chance.
The film starts off light hearted, with the two guys meeting and hitting it off. They enjoy a good time until the painful reality starts to strike. How are they going to maintain a relationship that is separated by societal, cultural and geographical barriers? The development of the story is very well done. I feel for all the characters. I feel their pain and their sorrows. It is unusual for a gay film to touch on tough topics such as prosecution, espionage and the constant threat of death, and "Out in the Dark" does it in outstanding style. The second half of the film maintains constant thrill and urgency. I could hardly catch my breath most of the time.
The prosecution, blackmailing and surveillance portrayed in "Out in the Dark" would be unbelievably contrived in other films, but it is so believable in this context. It is because of these very harsh conditions that make Nimr and Roy's love even more precious. It is the type of love to die for. I was in synchrony and resonance with the Nimr and Roy. I was so touched by their love and dedication for each other. Just by typing these, my eyes well up again.
"Out in the Dark" is an outstanding film. I think it is a must watch, and I will check out more Israeli films when I have the chance.
The film looks at the issue of homosexuality in a very humanistic way. It should be appreciated. "Out in Dark" also targets this very important matter that ordinary and innocent people are the main victims of political conflicts between the government. And also various governmental or militia agents who try to prevent two persons for loving each other instead of solving the main problems of the country.
Hopefully this film will have some effect in the Arab world which is quite harsh with homosexuals. It's quite sad that the mother of the younger gay in the film even does not want to talk to his son over the phone just because he is gay.
In General I think the film is a "must see".
Hopefully this film will have some effect in the Arab world which is quite harsh with homosexuals. It's quite sad that the mother of the younger gay in the film even does not want to talk to his son over the phone just because he is gay.
In General I think the film is a "must see".
- ddmehrabian7
- Apr 3, 2014
- Permalink
After watching dozens of gay themed films, I can easily spot a daisy among the grasses. And I genuinely believe it belongs to the latter, with "us against the world" love story. I WAS WRONG. This movie has wring my senses so much about LIVES of homosexuals in country with ruthless views of gay people. I am thankful that this movie was told to the world, captured beautifully, and created heavily in romantic drama. I would never look at gay movies again similarly after watching this. As for the title? I have zero idea what it meant until the last shot of the film. "OUT IN THE DARK". Brilliant title, amazing actors, riveting choice of hand-held camera angle.
Having an undergraduate thesis on gay people, I know gay rights are non-existence in Middle East, and other Arab/Muslim countries, but I have never walked, and looked, and be part of ones' life that this film has made me. It is painful and heart-wrenching, and sickening that these things are REALLY happening as we speak.
This movie is a must watch.
Having an undergraduate thesis on gay people, I know gay rights are non-existence in Middle East, and other Arab/Muslim countries, but I have never walked, and looked, and be part of ones' life that this film has made me. It is painful and heart-wrenching, and sickening that these things are REALLY happening as we speak.
This movie is a must watch.
- wjmlorenzo
- Jun 6, 2020
- Permalink
I love the writing of the story, it's simply touching the right spot, no wasted dialogue at all. Though I already knew from the beginning that it'll come down to one particular person in the movie, but I was still carried on by the natural acting from Nicholas Jacob and Michael Aloni, they are very believable. All in all, great movie!
- tedicaprio
- Jul 4, 2019
- Permalink
Beautifully Crafted. My favorite Gay Romantic film of all time. The romance on the backdrop of Palestine-Israeli Conflict, the thrill, the small moments of intimacy, the suspense and the fear to be outed. The film had everything. Highly Recommended! This is gonna stay close to your heart.
The only con I felt is to know what Happened to Roy and did they met at France :) I hope they had😊
- rijik-83713
- Feb 17, 2020
- Permalink
I watched the movie knowing about the accusation of "pinkwashing", and having watched this movie, I have to agree to a certain extent that there is some sort of propaganda in this film. Being funded by Israel Film Fund should be a big red flag, as it had to somehow approve the script before the film got filmed. I had no idea that Israel is so gay-friendly before watching the film, but the almost rigid "Israel, gay haven; Palestine, hell on earth" seems too unrealistic, given that there are other Israeli films that say the otherwise ("Yossi & Jagger", for example). And personally I find the description of Israel as a gay haven not so credible too, given that it is a highly religious place and is somehow still socially conservative, but correct me if I am wrong.
The opening of the film resembles 2011's "Weekend" a lot, as pointed out by other reviewers too. However, don't expect "Out In The Dark" to have the same emotional depth as the other critically acclaimed film - the characters in "Out In The Dark" are almost all one- dimensional. Roy seems to exist in the film only to love Nimer unconditionally; there is no attempt to explain his love for Nimer or why he would try so hard to be together with Nimer. The plot seems out of touch with reality and even ridiculous because we all know how shallow gay men can be, and without explaining why Roy is attracted to Nimer beyond his physical beauty, the plot falls apart easily.
But this movie isn't all bad. Beyond the occasional gaps in the film, which require the audience's full attention to really understand the whole picture, the movie has touched on some universal topics in the LGBT+ community that we must all acknowledge: forbidden love, the fear of being kicked out and disowned by one's family, and the fragility of same-sex relationships. The main actors, though being limited by the feeble script, played the characters well and are obviously eye candies, so if you're watching this movie, you're in for a treat.
I would recommend this movie because it reminds us of the fact that beyond the golden surface of the contemporary LGBT+ community, there are still people in the world struggling to survive because of their sexual orientations. And the relationship portrayed in the film, though shallow, shows the strength of what we can do if we come together in this fight towards ignorance and prejudice.
The opening of the film resembles 2011's "Weekend" a lot, as pointed out by other reviewers too. However, don't expect "Out In The Dark" to have the same emotional depth as the other critically acclaimed film - the characters in "Out In The Dark" are almost all one- dimensional. Roy seems to exist in the film only to love Nimer unconditionally; there is no attempt to explain his love for Nimer or why he would try so hard to be together with Nimer. The plot seems out of touch with reality and even ridiculous because we all know how shallow gay men can be, and without explaining why Roy is attracted to Nimer beyond his physical beauty, the plot falls apart easily.
But this movie isn't all bad. Beyond the occasional gaps in the film, which require the audience's full attention to really understand the whole picture, the movie has touched on some universal topics in the LGBT+ community that we must all acknowledge: forbidden love, the fear of being kicked out and disowned by one's family, and the fragility of same-sex relationships. The main actors, though being limited by the feeble script, played the characters well and are obviously eye candies, so if you're watching this movie, you're in for a treat.
I would recommend this movie because it reminds us of the fact that beyond the golden surface of the contemporary LGBT+ community, there are still people in the world struggling to survive because of their sexual orientations. And the relationship portrayed in the film, though shallow, shows the strength of what we can do if we come together in this fight towards ignorance and prejudice.
When I began watching this movie I didn't know anything about the story, I just knew it was a gay themed film. I will say that I have seen a great number of gay themed films so my only reference in this genre isn't the classic Brokeback Mountain everyone always praises about (which in my opinion is barely an average gay themed film, there are much better films out there that are less known). Out in the Dark belongs now to my Top 5 gay themed films and here are the reasons.
This film represents the reality and how gay people are seen and treated in Palestine/Israel. If you thought that in western culture being accepted as a gay person was a difficult process, it is million times harder if you happen to born in Palestine. This film isn't trying to be "the best film of the year" nor it doesn't have the most "intelligent" storyline, but it is about showing how things can differ from our (western) way of experiencing and seeing things. Out in the Dark takes the viewer to a trip to the streets of Palestine/Israel and shows those moments most Hollywood screenwriters would not add to the screenplay since they are not what the "screenwriting manual" tells you to write. This is also what makes this film so appealing; you are following a journey of a person as it happens, aka "live", without any editing tricks or plot twists taking place all over the film. During the film I was constantly thinking how this could end and if the film can retain that level of intensity during the whole film, it means the film is well-made. At the end Out in the Dark is a film about love and how strong love can be between two people regardless of their sex. The ending will certainly divide people whether they like it or not, but I would have personally loved to see more, but I will not tell more since I would otherwise spoil it for you.
Out in the Dark shouldn't really be compared to films like Brokeback Mountain since this has a completely different narrative mindset as a film. Brokeback Mountain is a classic Hollywood polished love story just made with well-known actors and a director, but I personally feel that Brokeback Mountain gets praised more than it should. Films like Shelter (2007) and Just a Question of Love (2000) are million times better than Brokeback Mountain and I would recommend them anytime for anyone who wishes to see a well-done gay themed film. Even though by itself Out in the Dark isn't in my opinion as good as these two I just mentioned, it is still best gay themed film when it comes to this type of films; films which represent reality as it appears in a current day. Brokeback mountain is simply a reality sugared with all possible drama elements when in Out in the Dark the main thing is not to go through the "beginning, middle and end", it's the part of the journey one person must take to survive.
This film represents the reality and how gay people are seen and treated in Palestine/Israel. If you thought that in western culture being accepted as a gay person was a difficult process, it is million times harder if you happen to born in Palestine. This film isn't trying to be "the best film of the year" nor it doesn't have the most "intelligent" storyline, but it is about showing how things can differ from our (western) way of experiencing and seeing things. Out in the Dark takes the viewer to a trip to the streets of Palestine/Israel and shows those moments most Hollywood screenwriters would not add to the screenplay since they are not what the "screenwriting manual" tells you to write. This is also what makes this film so appealing; you are following a journey of a person as it happens, aka "live", without any editing tricks or plot twists taking place all over the film. During the film I was constantly thinking how this could end and if the film can retain that level of intensity during the whole film, it means the film is well-made. At the end Out in the Dark is a film about love and how strong love can be between two people regardless of their sex. The ending will certainly divide people whether they like it or not, but I would have personally loved to see more, but I will not tell more since I would otherwise spoil it for you.
Out in the Dark shouldn't really be compared to films like Brokeback Mountain since this has a completely different narrative mindset as a film. Brokeback Mountain is a classic Hollywood polished love story just made with well-known actors and a director, but I personally feel that Brokeback Mountain gets praised more than it should. Films like Shelter (2007) and Just a Question of Love (2000) are million times better than Brokeback Mountain and I would recommend them anytime for anyone who wishes to see a well-done gay themed film. Even though by itself Out in the Dark isn't in my opinion as good as these two I just mentioned, it is still best gay themed film when it comes to this type of films; films which represent reality as it appears in a current day. Brokeback mountain is simply a reality sugared with all possible drama elements when in Out in the Dark the main thing is not to go through the "beginning, middle and end", it's the part of the journey one person must take to survive.
- jani-ahonen-1
- Jan 7, 2014
- Permalink
- angrymonkeys85
- Mar 23, 2013
- Permalink
Out in the Dark is a movie about true love, giving all yourself to the other person. It is set in Israel and Palestine, describing the most powerful love chemistry I have ever seen on the screen. I got really connected to the both of main characters.
Scenery is really beautiful and story is really breathtaking. There is one thing in this movie that I almost never think about. It is music, made for the movie. You can almost feel it on your skin. Especially the last one ( France by Mark Holden ). Even today, when I listen to it, I feel very sad and get goosebumps every time.
There was a debate if this was pink-washing movie. I never got that in mind. Both sides are depicted in neutral way. They are both full of good and bad characters. I do not see this movie as political. It is movie about true love and sharing all you have with other part of your soul.
The ending really got me in tears, left me thinking about future of both characters. Song France makes you feel feelings main roles feel and makes you think about all good stuff they went trough together.
Definitely, one of the best love movies I've ever seen.
Scenery is really beautiful and story is really breathtaking. There is one thing in this movie that I almost never think about. It is music, made for the movie. You can almost feel it on your skin. Especially the last one ( France by Mark Holden ). Even today, when I listen to it, I feel very sad and get goosebumps every time.
There was a debate if this was pink-washing movie. I never got that in mind. Both sides are depicted in neutral way. They are both full of good and bad characters. I do not see this movie as political. It is movie about true love and sharing all you have with other part of your soul.
The ending really got me in tears, left me thinking about future of both characters. Song France makes you feel feelings main roles feel and makes you think about all good stuff they went trough together.
Definitely, one of the best love movies I've ever seen.
- ivan_zagreb
- Jan 11, 2016
- Permalink
The story speaks to the very "realness" of the complexities of the human condition.
Here, we have a most believable plot of two men meeting casually - and having the biggest possible outcome on their lives. The part of "Roy" is played expertly to "Nimer" and I just love how the twists and turns of the delicate situation they find themselves in, empowers, ultimately (without giving it away) a difficult situation.
However, I enjoy that the end result is left largely unresolved allowing for your own imagination's participation. This means that the "effect" of the film stays with you for a while. It has also, in my opinion, humanised an otherwise impossible scenario in the Middle East and asks that age old question (if not entirely answers it), at what cost, love?
I'm a fan! I highly recommend this movie whether you're gay or not you'll find something in the very human story that will resonate with you.
Here, we have a most believable plot of two men meeting casually - and having the biggest possible outcome on their lives. The part of "Roy" is played expertly to "Nimer" and I just love how the twists and turns of the delicate situation they find themselves in, empowers, ultimately (without giving it away) a difficult situation.
However, I enjoy that the end result is left largely unresolved allowing for your own imagination's participation. This means that the "effect" of the film stays with you for a while. It has also, in my opinion, humanised an otherwise impossible scenario in the Middle East and asks that age old question (if not entirely answers it), at what cost, love?
I'm a fan! I highly recommend this movie whether you're gay or not you'll find something in the very human story that will resonate with you.
- peterjohnjnb
- May 7, 2015
- Permalink
First of All the line story is clear and easy to find out how, the romance, yep dont ever ask why this is good because its a romance movie. the music is good with a little thriller sound here and made me loud noisely to when the nimr in the runaway.
the character is really smooth just like they really have their story for real, this is I call the romantic movie I ever seen beside the truth is this movie were gay movie. i really dont care but I feel love here, I cried when there were fight for their love and I really thinks and grateful that I was born here in my country with freedom.
the character is really smooth just like they really have their story for real, this is I call the romantic movie I ever seen beside the truth is this movie were gay movie. i really dont care but I feel love here, I cried when there were fight for their love and I really thinks and grateful that I was born here in my country with freedom.
- adesunandar
- Apr 12, 2018
- Permalink
When this was first made it was called "The Bubble", and it was good. This isn't. The storyline and characters are undeveloped and therefore uninteresting. Two men, one Palestinian, one Israeli, fall in love (i guess) and that's a complicated arrangement what with border crossings, etc.... It is formulaic. But what it boils down to is two pretty boys gazing into one another's eyes. There, that's the plot. Oh yeah, and the Middle East conflict rages on around them with all the weight of a daytime soap opera. There is no dramatic support for their attraction to one another and no visceral connection between the actors to convey it. And, you don't care because they are so two dimensional it doesn't matter. This is a film devoid of dramatic tension.
I was surprise by how good this movie actually was. The acting is good, the plot is good and the balance between romance and darkness is quite good also.
Portrays the differences between the two families very well, although they could've been a bit darker with the arab family, as it is known that they are way more apprehensive to homosexuality and how "shameful" they consider it to be.
The movie has a great pace, combining slow scenes with fast paced action scenes, which keeps the viewer on the tip of their seat.
The cliffhangers though... leaves the story unfinished and makes the viewer wanting a second movie to answer to all of the questions, but it also makes the viewer imagining how the story would end and removes the need for a second movie. I guess we all wanted to see some more Roy and Nimer on our screens!
Overall this movie is a solid 8 or 9, I'm rating it a 10 to boost it a little bit. It's a must watch for everyone, especially anyone living in a closed-minded culture or environment that might have the same struggle and has now someone to identify with.
Portrays the differences between the two families very well, although they could've been a bit darker with the arab family, as it is known that they are way more apprehensive to homosexuality and how "shameful" they consider it to be.
The movie has a great pace, combining slow scenes with fast paced action scenes, which keeps the viewer on the tip of their seat.
The cliffhangers though... leaves the story unfinished and makes the viewer wanting a second movie to answer to all of the questions, but it also makes the viewer imagining how the story would end and removes the need for a second movie. I guess we all wanted to see some more Roy and Nimer on our screens!
Overall this movie is a solid 8 or 9, I'm rating it a 10 to boost it a little bit. It's a must watch for everyone, especially anyone living in a closed-minded culture or environment that might have the same struggle and has now someone to identify with.
- iamnotluigi
- Jul 19, 2021
- Permalink
Another excellent gay themed movie coming from Israel. The two leads are very attractive and great actors. The overarching message in this film is that being gay in the Middle East is already a living hell, but it's even worse than hell if you're gay and you can't get OUT!!! Hopefully, both of these characters managed to get out, but the ending left it open....a bit of a cliff hanger. I already had a poor view of the Middle East, but OMG....we bought all their oil and made them flush with cash....and fully capable of transporting their living hell elsewhere.
- ohlabtechguy
- Jan 3, 2019
- Permalink
- derrickluciano
- Oct 25, 2014
- Permalink
I loved this expertly directed film. It's fantastic to finally see people bringing up homosexuality and discrimination issues in the middle east. I grew up in a middle eastern country and I exactly know what it feels like to grow up as a gay in those communities. What impressed me the most was the way the cast and crew tried to demonstrate the difficulties and struggles of homosexual people in the best possible way as well as illustrating of two persons engaging a mutual relationship from two different countries with conflicting political poles alongside its own ups and downs. I hope more and more film makers think of this issue leading to more LGBT-related art pieces and therefore more awareness and acceptance among people in such places. I personally liked the personality of Nimr very much and his good willing innocent soul.
- rockylucky1998
- Feb 12, 2016
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So many good LGBTQ films seem to come out of Israel. Seems like the older ones are a lot better than the newer ones. Not sure why that is the case. The film shows the cultural differences between both Arab and Israeli cultures when it comes to accepting gay individuals. Well worth watching!
I enjoyed this movie more than I expected to but less than other reviewers. My biggest problem is the relationship between the two lead characters -- I never believed in it. It was ACTED, not EXPERIENCED, by the two actors.
Their love scenes were so tightly choreographed to the cloyingly sweet soundtrack that they came off as cold and mechanical. It was like watching ballet dancers, not lovers. That may be either because the straight actors needed a rigid scenario to follow since there was no genuine sexual dynamic between them or because the director didn't know how else to stage those scenes. Either way, it's the director's fault.
They were more believable outside the bedroom. There the actors were somewhat freer to be themselves and allow the characters to interact as persons, not having to try to force themselves to act like lovers. The story is fairly interesting but not quite believable.
Their love scenes were so tightly choreographed to the cloyingly sweet soundtrack that they came off as cold and mechanical. It was like watching ballet dancers, not lovers. That may be either because the straight actors needed a rigid scenario to follow since there was no genuine sexual dynamic between them or because the director didn't know how else to stage those scenes. Either way, it's the director's fault.
They were more believable outside the bedroom. There the actors were somewhat freer to be themselves and allow the characters to interact as persons, not having to try to force themselves to act like lovers. The story is fairly interesting but not quite believable.