In Syria

In Syria is an emotionally stirring and eye-opening 2017 movie directed by Philippe Van Leeuw. Set amidst the backdrop of war-torn Syria, the film exudes a sense of raw realism, encapsulating the resilience, struggles, and terror faced by the citizens in the region. The film stars a talented cast, including the highly acclaimed Hiam Abbass, the striking Diamand Abou Abboud, and the versatile Juliette Navis, who deliver powerful performances and infuses life into their respective roles, lifting the storyline to a visceral modulation of war, conflict, survival and human will.

The narrative of In Syria revolves around a Syrian family, living in an apartment in Damascus. At the center of the narrative is Oum Yazan, played by Hiam Abbass. She embodies the role of a resilient mother who, invested in ensuring her family’s safety, keeps a close knit on her household. Her character is an emblem of courage and hope, driving the narrative forward. Through Yazan's dogged determination and invincible willpower, the audience is offered an insightful glance into the plight of thousands of civilians in Syria who struggle to lead a customary life amidst the constant threats of war.

Diamand Abou Abboud and Juliette Navis play critical roles in the film, contributing to the movie’s handling of various themes like camaraderie, sacrifice, endurance, and love against a harrowing backdrop of an ongoing war. They augment the immersive environment with their commanding screen presence, reflecting the harsh reality of the conflict-ridden region.

As the movie unfolds, the audience finds themselves in the midst of the horrifying yet everyday realities of war. The events are centralized mostly within the confinement of an apartment building, and this claustrophobic setting amplifies the nerve-racking suspense. Director Philippe Van Leeuw masterfully utilizes this confined setting to emulate the bated breath, the unsettling quiet, the silenced screams adorning the seemingly still life of families whose lives are trapped in the cages of war. The sounds of nearby bombings, gunfire, and hovering helicopters form a chilling soundtrack to the narrative, rarely letting viewers forget the brutal war raging outside the apartment's walls.

Exploring further, we find that the film does an excellent job focusing on the impact the Syrian civil war has on women, in particular. Their struggles, undying spirit, and unending sacrifices are all captured exquisitely, further accentuating the film's appeal. Moreover, when these women put up their daunting fight against their tragic existence, the audience also gets a microscopic view of the social aspects that are often blurred in the grand narrative of war, making In Syria a compelling socio-political piece.

Notwithstanding the brutal and unsettling environment, there exist poignant moments of compassion, human spirit, and love, exemplifying the indomitable human will to survive. The constant switching from grim darkness to occasional beams of kindness and faith paints a diverse palette of human emotions that keeps the audience hooked and invested in the lives of these characters.

Philippe Van Leeuw’s direction, coupled with Virginie Surdej's atmospheric cinematography, creates a narrative that is as tumultuous as it is enthralling. The swift yet effective camera work, the harrowing silence shattered by the occasional blast, the suspenseful bewilderment, and the eerie stillness- all flow seamlessly in a riveting composition, bringing the grim reality of a war-torn Syria closer to home.

In Syria is not merely a film; it's an experience. It draws the audience into a realm far removed from their comfortable realities, forcing them to confront the harsh realities of war, the struggle of survival, and the resilience of the human spirit. More importantly, it serves as a stark reminder of the millions of people stuck in a terrifying chasm of violence, insecurity, and uncertainty.

While In Syria is a war film, it can’t be compared to your typical war drama. Instead of showing battlefield heroics or political intrigue, it zooms in on a less seen but equally courageous battle – the fight for survival within four walls while the world outside crumbles.

In Syria is a must-watch, gripping film that leaves a haunting impact on its viewers. It ranks alongside the most powerful war films, not through its depiction of battlefield heroics, but through its intimate, raw, and startlingly real portrayal of life amidst war. It's an unsettling, stark, and moving film that underscores the human will to endure.