Beauty and the Dogs

Beauty and the Dogs is a compelling Tunisian drama film that was released in 2017. Directed by Kaouther Ben Hania, the movie showcases a stark narrative of sexual aggression, fighting against power structures, and the quest for justice. The film stars Mariam Al Ferjani in the lead role, who performs a stellar act alongside supportive performances of Ghanem Zrelli and Noomen Hamda.

The story takes place in Tunisia and revolves around a young woman named Mariam, portrayed by Mariam Al Ferjani. Mariam is a university student who embarks on a nightmarish journey after a jubilant evening turns into a horrifying incident that changes the course of her life. She changes from a carefree student into a woman desperately trying to stand her ground against the institutions that tries to silence and suppress her. An instance of truly empowering cinema, Beauty and the Dogs tackles complex social and political issues with great finesse.

The narrative focuses on Mariam's ordeal over the course of one grueling night. Director Ben Hania’s meticulous storytelling ensures the narrative remains impactful and gripping from start to end. The creative usage of long takes gives the film an almost real-time portrayal which makes the sequence of events even more heart-wrenching. This structure induces a greater sense of empathy in viewers towards Mariam and her plight.

Mariam Al Ferjani's performance is incredibly powerful, setting the tone for the film. She portrays every emotion with such grace and conviction that the viewers cannot help but root for her. The horrors she undergoes, her resilience against the odds, and her assertiveness, all are portrayed impeccably through her act. Ghanem Zrelli and Noomen Hamda too, offer valuable contributions in shaping up this hard-hitting film.

Visually, Beauty and the Dogs is captivating. The cinematography perfectly captures the streets of Tunisia and the menacing atmosphere at night. The use of lighting and shadows establishing an unshakeable sense of suspense supports the dark themes of the film. Each frame is carefully crafted, carrying the weight of the narrative without being overly verbose. This visual language also brilliantly portrays the juxtaposition of the vibrant celebration at the start with the increasingly dire circumstances that follow.

The movie’s score further enhances the stunning visual effects. It stays subtle, balancing out the intense nature of the narrative. Combined with some clever sound design, it amplifies the sense of anxiety and fear that pervades through the narrative. The production values reflect Ben Hania's commitment to her art and storytelling.

Without giving away too much of the plot, it can be said that the movie explores themes like the abuse of power, victim-blaming, and patriarchal norms in Tunisian society. Ben Hania pulls no punches in her observations, offering a raw, unflinching look at these issues, challenging the viewer's perspective and, possibly, their complacency. But at the heart of the movie is the enduring spirit of the protagonist who refuses to bow down or be silenced. Beauty and the Dogs spotlights this hope amidst the bleakness, driving the film towards its climactic conclusion.

In conclusion, Beauty and the Dogs is an arresting film that hits hard at the societal norms, systemic abuse, and challenges the status quo while exploring the tenacious spirit of a woman who fights back under dire circumstances. It is a powerful and evocative movie that blends brilliant performances, smart cinematography, and a brave narrative to deliver a cinematic experience that is highly engaging, deeply moving, and thought-provoking. The film truly manages to affirm that, despite its title, the real beauty lies in the indomitable spirit of its protagonist.