Arwad (2013) Directed by Dominique Chila, Samer Najari
Drama
Film Review
An intensely moving film revolving around the themes of betrayal and identity,
Arwad marks an auspicious directorial debut for husband and wife team Dominique Chila and
Samer Najari. A sparse but engaging drama, this is a film that brings home the power
of memories to shape our identity and our destiny. The performances from the three
lead actors are all impeccable but Ramzi Choukair deserves a special mention for his
portrayal of a man who is forced to re-evaluate his life after a life-changing bereavement.
Arwad is a mature, contemplative drama, crafted with considerable insight by an exceptionally talented team.
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Film Synopsis
After his mother's death, Ali is overtaken by feelings of nostalgia that threaten his
marriage, especially as his wife Gabrielle is unable to console him. Ali's desire to escape
his present and connect with his past drives him to leave Montreal and visit the Syrian island
of Arwad. Leaving his family behind, he makes the journey with his mistress, Marie. It is
not long before Gabrielle and Marie come to blows...
In the 1940s, the shadowy, skewed visual style of 1920s German expressionism was taken up by directors of American thrillers and psychological dramas, creating that distinctive film noir look.
From its birth in 1895, cinema has been an essential part of French culture. Now it is one of the most dynamic, versatile and important of the arts in France.