"Arzé" is a 2024 Lebanese comedy-drama directed by Mira Shaib in her feature directorial debut. The film stars Diamand Abou Abboud as Arzé, Betty Taoutel as Layla, and Bilal Al Hamwi as Kinan. It was Lebanon's official submission for the Best International Feature Film category at the 97th Academy Awards.
Plot Summary:
Arzé, a single mother in Beirut, bakes pies to support her family, with her teenage son, Kinan, delivering them. To improve their delivery service, Arzé pawns her sister Layla's cherished bracelet to purchase a scooter. When the scooter is stolen, Arzé and Kinan embark on a journey across Beirut to retrieve it, navigating the city's complex sectarian divisions. Arzé adopts various disguises and personas to blend into different neighborhoods, revealing the city's multifaceted nature.
Director's Vision:
Mira Shaib aimed to present a narrative that, while rooted in Lebanese culture, resonates universally. By infusing humor into serious subjects like sectarianism, she sought to make the story accessible and engaging. Shaib emphasized the importance of portraying authentic family dynamics and the resilience of individuals amidst societal challenges.
Themes:
Resilience and Determination: Arzé's relentless pursuit to retrieve the stolen scooter symbolizes a mother's unwavering commitment to her family's well-being.
Identity and Adaptation: The film explores how individuals navigate and adapt to diverse cultural and sectarian landscapes.
Family Dynamics: It delves into the complexities of familial relationships, highlighting both tensions and deep bonds.
Socioeconomic Struggles: The narrative sheds light on the daily challenges faced by those striving to make ends meet in a turbulent environment.
Key Success Factors:
Authentic Performances: Diamand Abou Abboud's portrayal of Arzé has been praised for its depth and relatability.
Cultural Nuance: The film offers a genuine depiction of Beirut's societal intricacies, providing audiences with an immersive experience.
Balancing Humor and Drama: The screenplay skillfully intertwines moments of levity with serious themes, making the narrative both thought-provoking and entertaining.
Short Summary:
"Arzé" follows a single mother in Beirut who, after her son's delivery scooter is stolen, embarks on a journey through the city's diverse neighborhoods to retrieve it. The film offers a heartfelt exploration of family bonds, societal divisions, and personal resilience.
Awards, and Nominations: 1 win & 5 nominations
"Arzé" was selected as Lebanon's official submission for the Best International Feature Film category at the 97th Academy Awards. While it did not secure a nomination, the selection underscores its significance in Lebanese cinema.
2024 Winner AWFF Award, Asian World Film Festival
Critical Reception:
The film received positive reviews following its premiere at the Tribeca Festival. Critics lauded its blend of humor and drama, as well as its insightful commentary on societal issues. Liz Whittemore of Reel News Daily described it as "a slice of genius" and one of the standout films of the festival.
Production:
The film was produced by Faissal Sam Shaib, Louay Khraish, and Zeina Badran. Filming took place in Beirut at the end of 2022, during a period marked by significant financial challenges in Lebanon. Despite these obstacles, the production team succeeded in capturing the city's essence, contributing to the film's authentic atmosphere.
Distribution and Sales:
"Arzé" premiered at the Beijing International Film Festival in April 2024, followed by its North American premiere at the Tribeca Festival in June 2024. The film has been showcased at various international festivals, enhancing its visibility and reach. Distribution Company: Cineverse Entertainment
Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt27526845/
Link to watch: https://www.amazon.com/Arze-Mira-Shaib/dp/B0DNRBBVY5 (US)
Why we recommend movie:
"Arzé" is recommended for its authentic portrayal of Beirut's societal landscape, compelling performances, and its ability to balance humor with poignant themes. The film provides a nuanced look at the challenges and strengths of a family navigating a complex environment, making it both an engaging and thought-provoking watch.
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