Showroom Cinema Movie Review: Lebanon (2009)

Lebanon (2009) Directed by Samuel Maoz.


Just returned back from the Sheffield Showroom after watching Samuel Maoz's 'Lebanon'. Wow, such a powerful and secluded movie that left me with a daunting feeling of isolation. Set in 1982 during the first Lebanon war, the movie introduces four members of a tank crew and the ever rising anguish and differences between them.

A beautiful work of art, Samuel Maoz's use of point of view shots and isolated scenes reel off a sense of high anxiety being trapped inside the tank with the fellow soldiers. A raw and brooding atmosphere with moments of desperation and improvisation also gives the audience a claustrophobic reaction.

(4 out of 5)

Showroom Cinema Movie Review: The Time That Remains (2009)

The Time That Remains (2009) Directed by Elia Suleiman.


"Now you do know the Palestinians are not the same thing as the Rebel Alliance?" - Atom & His Package, 2003.

'The Time That Remains' is divided into four episodes which follow a Palestinian family who decide to remain in their country after being taken over by Israeli armed forces. Spanning from 1948 to present day, the movie depicts life during these times in a darkly comic yet touching and emotional manner.

Director Elia Suleiman use of repetition and framing of certain scenes gives the movie a unique and quirky tone whilst we see characters grow and adapt during the invasion of Palestine.

Using beautiful cinematography and production design, 'The Time That Remains' is a dramatic and heartfelt movie, with no hidden political agenda.

(4 out of 5)