Pomegranates and Myrrh
2008 Palestinian film
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Pomegranates and Myrrh is a 2008 Palestinian romantic drama film[1][2] written and directed by Najwa Najjar.[3][4] The film takes place in Ramallah and follows the journey of Kamar, a gifted Palestinian dancer, whose husband, Zaid, is incarcerated by Israeli authorities.[5][6] It portrays the resilience and spirit of the Palestinian people, emphasizing their everyday challenges and victories.[7]
Meinolf Zurhorst
Robin Gutch
Ali Suliman
Hiam Abbass
Ashraf Farah
| Pomegranates and Myrrh | |
|---|---|
Poster | |
| Directed by | Najwa Najjar |
| Written by | Najwa Najjar |
| Produced by | Hani E. Kort Meinolf Zurhorst Robin Gutch |
| Starring | Yasmine Al-Masri Ali Suliman Hiam Abbass Ashraf Farah |
| Cinematography | Valentina Caniglia |
| Edited by | Bettina Böhler Sotira Kyriacou |
| Music by | Mychael Danna Amritha Fernandes Bakshi |
Production companies | Ustura Films ZDF/ARTE Ciné-Sud Promotion |
Release date |
|
Running time | 95 minutes |
| Country | Palestine |
| Language | Arabic |
Plot
The story revolves around Khadija, a young Palestinian woman played by Hiam Abbass, who is an aspiring dancer.[8][9][10] Her life takes a dramatic turn when her husband, Mansour (played by Ali Suliman), is arrested and imprisoned due to the political tensions in the region.[11][12][13] As Khadija navigates her grief and struggles with the societal pressures surrounding her, she finds solace and strength in her art.[14] As Kamar immerses herself in her passion for dance, she meets Kais, a charming and talented dancer who captivates her heart and mind.[15] Through their interactions, Kamar finds herself torn between her loyalty to her imprisoned husband and her growing feelings for Kais.[16][17][18]
Cast
- Yasmine Al-Masri as Kamar[19]
- Ashraf Farah as Zaid[20]
- Ali Suliman as Kais[21]
- Hiam Abbass as Umm Habib
- Walid Abdul Salam as Odeh[22]
- Lotuf Neusser as Issa[23]
- Leah Tsemel as Leah
- Samia Qazmoz Bakri as Umm Zaid[24]
- Manal Award as Ambar
- Ahmad Abu Sal'oum as Abu Antar[25]
- Valentina Abu Oqsa as Mariam
- Yussef Abu Wardeh as Yussef[26]
- Wardeh Dukwar as Yasmine
- Wardeh Jubran as Yasmine[27]
- Dorin Munawayyer as Rasha
- Hussein Nakleh as Abu Saji
Production
Reception
Critics
The film received a mix of positive and critical reviews. Critics praised its technical execution, striking visuals, and robust structural elements. Nonetheless, some critics expressed that the story line lacked depth and the central love triangle was not satisfactorily resolved.[29][30]
Accolades
- Screenplay Development Fund – Amiens International Film Festival[31]
- Four awards at the Festival de San Sebastian (Cinema in Motion, 2008)
- Best Arab Film Audience Award – Doha Tribeca Film Festival (2009)[32]
- Grand Prix – Amal Arab European Film Festival (2009)
- Best Actress & Best Cinematography – Muscat International Film Festival (2010)[33]
- Youssef Chahine Grand Prix de Cinéma and Special Mention for Best Actress – Festival International de Cinéma d’Auteur de Rabat (2010)[34]