Gaza mon amour

Set in the heart of the besieged region of Gaza in Palestine, the 2020 film 'Gaza mon amour' transports viewers into a world that juggles between everyday reality and the quest for romance. This richly textured yet strikingly insightful Palestinian drama, which transcends ordinary narratives about the region, is directed by brothers Tarzan Nasser and Arab Nasser and stars seasoned actors Salim Daw, Hiam Abbass, and Maisa Abd Elhadi.

The movie's narrative is inspired by an actual event of an ancient statue of Apollo being fished out of the sea, and it's set in the backdrop of the ground realities of life in Gaza. The protagonist, 60-year-old fisherman Issa (played by Salim Daw), discovers a statue of the Greek god Apollo in his net. This find serves as a catalyst in this intriguing narrative, setting in motion a chain of events in Issa's hitherto routine life.

Issa leads a life of quiet solitude in a tiny apartment tucked away in the bustle of Gaza. Beside his daily work routines, he cherishes a secret love for his neighbor Siham (Hiam Abbass), a dressmaker, whose shop is located in the same market square as the coffee shop he frequents. However, the traditional norms of his society restrict him from expressing his feelings openly.

The narrative takes a turn with Issa's unexpected discovery of the statue. The underwater find soon spirals out of control, leading the tranquilly stoic Issa into a whirlwind of chaotic situations involving Hamas officials, police, and even a greedy local baker. The statue, considered as an icon of pagan idolatry by the Hamas officials, also serves as a metaphor in the narrative, subtly suggesting how ancient ideals of beauty and love are continually interpreted and misunderstood.

Alongside this, the film intricately explores Issa's long-pent feelings for his lifelong crush Siham. Gazan traditions necessitate that any courtship should quickly culminate in a marriage proposal, thus creating an added layer of complexity for his situation. And with the added pressures from his boisterous sister and a love rival in the making, viewers are treated to subtle layers of human emotions and the pursuit of unexpected love in a place where survival typically overshadows such tender feelings.

Actress Maisa Abd Elhadi, who plays the role of a young bride, brings a level of contemporary relevance to the storyline. Her subplot touches upon women's status and freedom in the traditionally conservative Gazan society, further deepening the film’s exploration of love in its many forms and constraints.

'Gaza mon amour' beautifully weaves contrasting aspects of the Gazan life; the tension-filled plot, the quirky humor, the subtle romance, the sense of oppression, and ultimately, the embodiment of resilience and human spirit in the face of adversity. The performances by Salim Daw and Hiam Abbass are outstanding, and Daw, in particular, brings a unique warmth and charm to his character that truly elevate the film.

The cinematography deserves a special mention as well; it aptly captures the paradox of Gaza's natural beauty against the stark harshness of everyday life. Scenes of sunset at the fishing harbour, bustling marketplaces, and intimate indoor moments all serve as a somber ode to the resilience of the locals who remain hopeful amidst a difficult socio-political climate.

The directors, Tarzan Nasser and Arab Nasser, have crafted a captivating tale that superbly blends humor with melancholy. The film’s strength lies in its narration of ordinary lives lived with simplicity and dignity, focusing on how love silently blooms even amidst constraints.

Indeed, 'Gaza mon amour' is quite an essential film to watch, particularly for those seeking profound understanding and perspective on lives beyond the headlines in this often misrepresented area of the world. It showcases beauty and love as universal constants that persist even in the harshest of circumstances. Despite being set in an area known for conflict, it explores the universal themes of late-in-life romance, unrequited love, and the pursuit of happiness, making it a truly poignant and unforgettable cinematic experience.