George Benlian on movies, books and few other things

Israelis and Arabs do make great films together

During the last decade, viewers of quality cinema have witnessed the emergence of interesting and powerful movies made by Israeli (and in few cases by Palestinian) directors telling simple and heart-warming stories. It is always surprising to see the lack of violence in those movies. In contrary the collaboration between israelis and palestinians can be seen as a message of hope and tolerance.

Lately i was impressed by "Lemon tree", a movie i discovered late last year and wrote about it in my blog. "The band's visit" made by a young Israeli director is another cinematic gem. A charming and gentle movie about the Egyptian Alexandria Ceremonial Police Orchestra arriving to a small Israeli town to give a performance in honor of the opening of an Arab Cultural Centre. Stranded and lost they will soon find out they are expected in another town and therefore have no other choice but to spend the night with few locals including the female owner of a cafe with two-man clientele.

Do not expect heart beating scenes. You might even sometime ask to yourself if there is an actual story. A movie without a developed story may be a risky enterprise however in rare occasions, it can defies this principle and provide a well entertaining and profound cinematic experience which "The band's visit" can be considered as a great example. Good actors are always another valid reason for a film success. We have hardly heard about Ronit El Kabetz who plays Dina, the blunt owner of a cafe that will welcome the band and will even spend a candid evening with Tawfic, their head singer. She is spontaneous and brings a hint of mystery to her character. The show stealer remains however the actor who plays Tawfic. His name is Sasson Gabai. He has an intensive film actor career and has even played in several Hollywood blockbusters. Tawfic is a man of strict principles. He can be severe to his musicians but is always an extremely polite gentleman with strangers. When he goes for an unexpected date with Dina, he is utterly shy. What counts nevertheless is the true Human Being he is with his weak points and poignant past.

In one survey it was estimated 98% of critics liked "The band's visit". It is no surprise the movie won various prestigious awards all over the World 

Lemon Tree by Eran Riklis

What i really like about "Lemon Tree" directed by Israeli Eran Riklis is the simplicity of it's narrative and how much power can this represents as a fiction movie. A provoking drama based from true events, "Lemon Tree" captures a sad reality that us, living in peaceful countries may have difficulties to comprehend. Eran Riklis, an Israeli director previously known for another recent movie about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict called "The Syrian Bride" is not reluctant to have a critical eye on his country's ridiculous laws for the sake of security.

The cinema can be a universal language if used appropriately. In this instance, it is well achieved. Two neighbours, two cultures, two different priorities and yet a moment of compassion towards the end of the movie in the scene at the High court where the two protagonists meet and exchange smile. This has lots to say about how despite more than half a century long conflict, an israeli and an arab woman can have in common.

Lemon trees have the metaphorical role of representing life. Their imminent destruction because of security threats to the newly elected minister of defense can sound stupid however by thinking twice we could notice how much similarities exist between this "minor" incident and the destiny of thousands of victims whether they are Israelis or Palestinians.

"The Lemon Tree" tries not to take sides. The "big bad wolf" is not visible. The minister himself, despite his arrogant personality doesn't wish to make a big deal by always leaving to the High Intelligence to make decisions. What a sarcastic life matter with a clear message saying power talks.

This is a simple narrative movie but i must admit the hidden complexity of what's behind this simple story can be compared to various complex issues and specialy those experienced in the Middle East for so many decades.

The cast is excellent. Hiam Abbas playing the widow is mesmerising. This movie could have an alternative title; "The story of a courageous woman"

"The Lemon Tree" won the award for best film at the Berlin International Film Festival.

For more information visit the movie's website www.lemontreemovie.com