It is a Lebanese drama film. Directed by Nadine Labaki & produced by Khaled Mouzanar. Screen play by Labaki, Jihad Hojaily & Michelle Keserwany from a story by them. It stars Syrian refugee child actor Zain Al Rafeea as Zain El Hajj.
His acting is natural. He has tried to relive his life. His eyes vacant &- unsure of what will come next?, are his strength.
Zain is a 12 year old living in the slums of Beirut. His story is in flashback format. Focassing on his life , including his encounter with an Ethiopian immigrant Rahil & her infant son, Yonas. Leading up to his attempt to sue his parents for child abuse.
Much later, when everything is sorted, he is being photographed for his Id. At Zain’s sour expression, the photographer remarks, ‘it’s your ID card, not your death certificate’ – and Zain manages a smile.
Nadine Labaki, the director of the film has a small role. She is his lawyer. After the grand success of her earlier film, ‘Where Do we go from Here ?’, this film surpassed every expectation.
Made on a budget of $ 4 million it garnered $ 68.6 million. The film debuted at the 2018 Cannes film Festival, it was selected to compete for the Palme d’Or. & won the Jury Prize. It received a 15 minute standing ovation following it’s premiere at Cannes on 17 May 2018.
It is both the highest grossing Arabic & Middle Eastern Film of all times. It became a sleeper hit at the international box officewith over $ 68 million. In China, it became a surprise blockbuster with over $ 54 million.
The slums again underline our good luck. We have been so fortunate to live in clean houses with caring parents.
Asian Entertainment 