The Syrian civil war has killed half a million people and displaced almost 15 million. A decade of war has naturally triggered a rise in war films about the country, but beyond the sensationalism of Western war movies, there are countless nuanced Syrian films which have emerged, each turning the lens inwards and even heading to the Oscars.
By now, you have probably drained Netflix, just like us. But the one thing that lockdown is good for is getting to know the hidden gems. Here are ten brilliant Syrian films to watch this week.
For Sama (2019)
Winner of a BAFTA last February, For Sama has also been nominated for this year’s Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. This powerful documentary, which follows five years in Syrian journalist and filmmaker Waad al-Kateab’s life, as she becomes a mother while recording the attacks on Aleppo, is probably one of the most influential documentaries of the decade.
The Cave (2019)
Directed by Syrian filmmaker Feras Fayyad, The Cave is another documentary about Syria which has been nominated for an Oscar. Unlike most war movies, which tend to focus on the masculine and combative side of war, The Cave explores how wars are experienced and felt from a female perspective through quieter, more honest, moments. More than just exposing the regime’s propaganda, The Cave depicts the Syrian community like never seen before.
Taste of Cement (2017)
This beautiful documentary, which captures exiled Syrian builders in Beirut is the most pacifist film about the Syrian war.
Queens of Syria (2014)
Directed by Yasmin Fedda, this documentary follows 50 Syrian women refugees in Jordan rehearsing an ancient Greek tragedy about women’s experiences of war.
The Night (1992)
Released in 1993, this film is directed by the most famous living Syrian director, Mohammad Malas. Shot in his hometown, Quneitra, this is an art house autobiographical tale about three generations, from the Syrian fight for independence, to the war with Israel. A Syrian classic.
The Truck Driver (1966)
This film marked the first official production of the General Organization for Cinema in Syria, laying the foundation for modern Syrian cinema. Directed by Yugoslav filmmaker Boško Vućinić, it brought together a local team to craft a socially and emotionally charged story reflecting the concerns of Syrian society at the time.
The plot revolves around a young truck driver’s assistant who falls in love with a simple village girl. However, his life takes a complicated turn when the driver tries to arrange his marriage to the driver’s daughter for personal gain. Through this emotional and social conflict, the film explores human relationships in rural Syria, where traditions and class struggles play a pivotal role in determining the characters’ fates.
With a stellar cast featuring Khaled Taja, Hala Shawkat, and Sabri Ayad, coupled with a captivating musical score by Solhi al-Wadi, the film stands out as a significant cinematic achievement. It remains a bold step in developing narrative techniques in Syrian cinema.
The Leopard (1972)
Based on a novel by Syrian author Haidar Haidar, director Nabil Maleh takes us on a daring cinematic journey that highlights the individual’s struggle against authority. The film follows the story of a simple farmer living in the Syrian countryside who faces oppression under the feudal system and ultimately decides to fight back against injustice.
The film is known for its symbolic and controversial scenes, which sparked debates upon its release. “The Leopard” was among the first Syrian films to address themes of rebellion and social justice, presenting a unique aesthetic vision through the performances of Adeeb Qudoura, Ighraa, and Asaad Fadda.
Dreams of the City (1983)
One of the most acclaimed Syrian films, this work by Mohammad Malas left a lasting impression both locally and internationally. Combining realism with symbolism, the film tells the moving story of a Syrian family during the post-independence era and the period of unity between Egypt and Syria.
The story centers on a mother and her two children who move to their grandfather’s house following the death of the father. Through the family’s experiences, the film portrays the societal transformations of Syria as it rebuilds its state.
With powerful performances by Ayman Zeidan and Rafeeq Subaie, Dreams of the City won multiple international awards and was selected among the top ten Arab films in the history of cinema.
The Extras (1993)
In this film, director Nabil Maleh delves into the depths of human psychology, shedding light on the suppression and fear experienced by Syrian citizens through a clandestine love story between Salem and Neda. The film captures the fragility of human connections in the shadow of political and social repression, making it one of the bold works that confront societal taboos.
Samar Sami and Bassam Kousa delivered exceptional performances, capturing the intricate nuances of their characters. The Extras is a cinematic masterpiece that showcases Syrian cinema’s capability to tackle deep issues with artistic sensitivity.
The Long Night (2008)
This Haitham Hakki-directed film offers an intimate look at the lives of political prisoners in Syria. Through the story of three detainees released after over 20 years of imprisonment, the feature explores the changes they face in their lives, their families, and the society around them.
Starring Basel Khayat, Amal Arafa, and Khaled Taj, The Long Night skillfully portrays the realities of political oppression and its profound impact on individuals, making it a standout work that reflects the values of freedom and dignity in Syrian cinema.
