The Return to Homs

The Return to Homs is a 2013 Arabic-language documentary, highlighting the jarring realities of the Syrian Civil War through the lives of ordinary civilians turned rebel fighters. Directed by Talal Derki, this award-winning film prominently features Tia Alkerdi, Yara Ibrahim, and Abdul Basset Saroot.

The Return to Homs opens with a stark look at Homs, the city that was once renowned for its thriving life and bustling cityscape. The city has now been reduced to ghostly echoes of its past, featuring damaged buildings and desolate streets as a direct impact of the ongoing war. The film principally focuses on Abdul Basset Saroot, a former Syrian national football team goalkeeper, and his transformation into a symbol of resistance for many.

Saroot is a charismatic young man who initially staged peaceful protests against President Bashar al-Assad's controversial regime. However, the brutal repression and escalating violence oblige him to take up arms, placing him and his friends at the forefront of a brutal conflict. The movie paints an intimate portrait of Saroot’s journey and his irrevocable commitment to his hometown Homs, regardless of the dangers associated with remaining in a city under siege.

Tia Alkerdi and Yara Ibrahim are also excellently portrayed, representing courageous voices that relentlessly hang onto hope amidst the despair surrounding them. Demonstrating unyielding resilience, they resist the oppressive forces impacting their lives daily. Together, they symbolize the unsung heroes who persevere to maintain a sense of normalcy and humanity in the face of adversity.

The Return to Homs gives audiences an inside look at the harsh realities of the Syrian conflict from a ground-level perspective. The iconic shots of the ruined city, the struggle of civilians, and the resilience of the characters exude a stark reality contrasted against the backdrop of the indifferent international community.

The embedded filmmakers lead us through labyrinthine passages in the city of Homs and the lives of its people. With a camera that never flinches from the adversities faced by the Syrian people, it documents the transformation of the city and its inhabitants while retaining their spirit of hope amidst despair. The film effectively balances the dire circumstances with moments of camaraderie, bravery, and determination, showcasing their undying belief in a free Syria, a sentiment echoed in their popular chanting, "We are going till the end."

Derki's direction can be seen as raw, daring, but equally subtle, capturing the essence of war in the lives of ordinary people. The film transcends the typical trajectory of a war documentary by seamlessly integrating personal narratives within a broader political context. The audiences not only witness the devastation caused by the war but also the spirit and strength of those who resist it.

The Return to Homs also deploys a rich palette of visual and auditory storytelling devices that make the viewing experience profound and immersive. Audiences are treated to the stark contrast between quiet and chaotic scenes, symbolizing war's erratic and unpredictable nature. The gradual change in Saroot, from a gregarious footballer to a battle-hardened resistance leader, is equally impactful, providing a layered exploration of the human cost of war.

The Return to Homs is an evocative documentary that conveys a strong message of resilience and resistance. The film doesn’t shy away from the raw realities of civil revolt, instead showing us the grinding process - the embattled spirit, the shared laughter, the heartbreaks, and the moments of defeat and victory. It places the realities of the battlefield side by side with everyday snippets of life, crafting a heartfelt narrative that’s real, raw and resonates deeply even after the end credits roll.

In conclusion, The Return to Homs is an exceptional film that provides a visceral, on-the-ground portrayal of Syria's civil war through the lenses of a former football star, a desperate city, and a population struggling for freedom. It showcases the cost of war from a perspective rarely seen - those who live it every day - and the hope that sustains them through it. The Return to Homs leads with its heart, leaving the audiences moved and compelled to reflect on the world's injustices.