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Reviews
Juman (2019)
Big Family, Big Plot and Very Big Questions.
Have reached Episode 14. The Series began very well wih a good range of characters and a varied plot but it contains many things which are unpleasant. The escalation of aggressive behaviour from some of the men when questioned or disagreed with makes uncomfortable viewing. The bitterness of some of the characters towards others is unreasonable and hard to fathom. Some of the characters are very immature. The restriction of womens' lives is also distressing and the seeds of a controlling manipulative partner are on view. That said the drama does raise important issues and whether intentional or not provokes a questioning of parental control, marriage to relatives, attitudes & treatment of women, attitudes of entitlement because of wealth and how employees are treated. I wouldn't say I've enjoyed it and don't know if I will reach the finish.
Habibi Rasak Kharban (2011)
Love at a Crossroads
This is a difficult film to watch. The love which exists between Layla & Qays is very real and almost on a mystical plain. However, their life of love shared intellectually while in University comes to down to earth with a shattering blow when they return to Gaza. Reality of the world in which they live: tradition, educational and financial restriction and family considerations all place enormous pressure on the couple. This is a traditional drama of logic versus the passion of love. Of what happens when the depth of love between two people comes face to face with the harsh nature of their life situation. The couple must decide as individuals how to deal with it and what path to choose.
The acting is excellent and the close up scenes of just the actors brings the viewer into the anguish felt by Layla, Qays and their families. The drama also reveals much of a different culture which is hard for a westerner to accept never mind understand. Yet, it is seen and through the experiences the couple must face the viewer does too. The anxiety of living their lives while trying to find a way to be together or accepting they cannot is deeply felt and reveals the essence of humanity which transcends cultural or geographic background.
The film made me unsettled and uneasy. You feel for the characters but believe Layla is more grounded and realistic while there is no doubting the depth of her love. Quays is totally distracted by his love and his admission of his condition to Layla is a key moment in the film.
The choices for the couple are very tough. Will they make it? You'll just have to watch it to see!
The Diplomat (2023)
If the Suit Fits?
Brilliantly written and casted with a variety of characters who portray the tension of diplomatic politics with moments of light relief. A refreshing drama based on the Anglo-American diplomatic exchanges in hot seat of London. The settings of the various British stately homes amidst the parks and architecture of London provide a gravitas to the proceedings as well as being very pleasing on the eye. Keri Russell & Rufus Sewell really establish the tone of the series early on through their frustrations, love and dislike for each other as they enter the cage-fight of international diplomacy in London. Russell's choice of practical and smart suits reveal her demeanour and approach to work and her new staff. David Gyasi through his deep calm and resonant tone provides an impressive role as a Minister any government would be very lucky to have. Overall a very enjoyable drama. Each episode is fasting moving while en route towards the finish which may or may not set up a second series - the door is well and truly open to that possibility. Really hopeful the second series gets a green light.
The Exchange (2023)
First Time Up for Kuwaiti Series: The Exchange
The plot was engaging and features the lives of two women in very different situations. While the two are cousins, they are very different yet begin to overcome past rivalries determined as they are to break through the 'old boy network' at the Kuwait Stock Exchange. The humour is subtle and placed well amidst the subterfuge and patronising attitudes of the men towards the women. The series makes you think and you are drawn to the characters willing them to succeed. Enjoyed this first journey into the world of Kuwaiti drama. The 80s genre works well and the cultural situation is intriguing. Well worth a watch.