Pomegranates and Myrrh

Pomegranates and Myrrh is a highly acclaimed Palestinian drama movie released in 2008. The film is directed by Najwa Najjar and stars celebrated actors such as Ashraf Farah, Ali Suliman, and the internationally renowned Hiam Abbass. The film is Palestinian cinema's pride and serves as a vivid reflection of Palestinian society, its traditions, the realities of Israeli occupation, and resistance through art and dance.

The film commences with the joyous union of Zaid played by Ashraf Farah and Kamar played by Yasmine Elmasri. Zaid is a simple, traditional olive farmer deeply enrooted in his ancestral land in the outskirts of Ramallah, while Kamar stands for a modern Palestinian woman who embraces contemporary dance as her passion. Their dramatically different backgrounds come together beautifully to form a harmonious relationship, portraying the various dimensions of Palestinian society.

However, the newlyweds' dreamy world gets shattered as Zaid is taken to prison by Israeli authorities for not surrendering his land, thus inaugurating a new yet challenging phase in their lives. The film intricately navigates Kamar’s emotional turmoil and struggle to stand tall amid conflict and maintain her love for Zaid alive and unwavering.

This inevitable tragedy gives the film a new angle where Kamar, with the encouragement of Zaid's mother played by Hiam Abbass, takes the reins of their life and strives to keep their olive farm from being overtaken. This scenario underlines the power of Palestinian women, which has always been the backbone of their society and often overlooked.

On another front, Kamar tries to keep her identity and life intact by continuing her dancing passion, which further sets the stage for the arrival of Kais, portrayed by Ali Suliman. He is an accomplished choreographer with experiences ranging from the exile in New York to the realities of Palestinian society. Kais serves as the catalyst in Kamar's life, aiding her in her journey of self-exploration while helping her cope with her solitude and paving the way for her to pursue her dream of dance.

However, the introduction of Kais brings about a whirlwind of emotions, tension, and struggle within Kamar. She finds herself at the crossroads of societal boundaries, her longing for Zaid, and her growing unconventional ties with Kais.

Pomegranates and Myrrh is a profound exploration of the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict portrayed through the lives of simple individuals. It depicts the everyday struggles, sacrifices, and resilience of thousands of Palestinian people who are unified by their shared love for their land and culture.

The film's title lends to its symbolic use of Pomegranates and Myrrh. Pomegranates are traditionally seen at Palestinian weddings and often linked with fruitfulness and prosperity. In contrast, Myrrh, a resin extracted from thorny trees, represents suffering and sacrifice due to its bitter taste and pain-inducing extraction process. This intriguing juxtaposition of the inevitably intertwined joy and sorrow is a running thread throughout the movie.

Pomegranates and Myrrh stands out due to its rich storytelling and solid performances by the cast. Ashraf Farah as Zaid encapsulates the spirit of a Palestinian man bound to his roots. Yasmine Elmasri as Kamar beautifully portrays the journey of a modern woman struggling between her passion and the harsh realities of life. Ali Suliman as Kais is at his best, skilfully sketching a character that symbolizes a ray of hope in the dreary circumstances. Hiam Abbass as Zaid’s mother stands for enduring strength and hope in adversity.

Directed by Najwa Najjar, the film maintains a rhythmic pace, which is akin to a dance of its own. It beautifully captures the turbulence of the Palestinian lands with a tender narrative that captivates viewers. Pomegranates and Myrrh is a sincere and wholehearted film that takes a heartfelt look at the human aspect of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which often gets lost in the political rhetoric.

In conclusion, Pomegranates and Myrrh is an exquisitely shot, honest, and deeply moving film. It captures the essence of Palestinian culture and the hardships of its people while introducing its viewers to a world beyond news headlines and political debates. It's a must-watch for those seeking a beautiful cinematic experience coupled with enriching cultural insight. The film serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of the people of Palestine and pays an emotional tribute to their unbeatable passion for their land and tradition.