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The terrific Azabal draws the audience in as Mina watches her husband closely, subtly trying to sway him as she has for decades. This is also expressed in sharp criticism and blunt responses to customers. Meanwhile, Bakri gives Halim a thoughtful, observant dignity that's compelling. This is a man who learned this intricate trade from his father and only now has someone he can pass it on to. And Missioui is terrific as the soulful, intelligent Youssef. The chemistry between these men is played with gorgeous sensitivity.

Throughout the script, references to caftans knowingly echo the relationships depicted on-screen, as the garments need to be resilient enough to survive the challenges of time, passed from generation to generation. This of course reflects in the way the film quietly addresses sexuality in a culture where it has to remain hidden. So the moment halfway in when it is finally acknowledged is heart-stopping on a several emotional levels. And where the story goes from here is surprising and infused with hope.

themes, sexuality

13.Oct.22

With terrific on-screen presence, Lee shines as a man who remains cool even when viciously pushed into a corner. Likeably observant and capable, Park is never afraid to charge into the mayhem, he also seems immune to various bombs, bullets and vehicles that are hurled at him. His chemistry with Jung's slicker, steelier Kim is riveting, reflecting their messy history (there are flashbacks). Both men have the posture of a true believer, and both actors let the audience in as the storm escalates around them.

Enormous political themes spiral through this story, as a variety of people grapple with what it means to serve a dictator in a nation that has been split in two by war. So the dance between Park and Kim takes a series of personal and professional spins that become sometimes staggeringly violent. Through all of this, Lee directs the film with a confident hand, keeping even the most frantic action coherent while building to an entertaining climax so enormous that it nearly knocks us out.

themes, language, violence

19.Oct.22 leaff

As Tom, Keren has a loose attitude and physicality that are disarmingly attractive, making it clear how he continually talks his way out of trouble. Even as his impulsive decision-making causes problems over and over again. Barsheshet has an easy-going vibe as Gilad, whose main struggle is getting his acting career off the ground. He also has his pick of the girls, and a nasty jealous streak. But he clearly loves Tom as a friend, and maybe more. Meanwhile, Amitai plays Rami sympathetically, aware that his behaviour toward Tom borders on predatory.

As feelings begin to come out into the open, Kantor keeps the film visually striking, using this imagery to explore connections between bodies, minds and hearts. By contrast, the plot feels abrupt and sharply pointed, as the threat of impending military service creates different reactions in the confident Tom and the less assured Gilad. This adds a provocative layer to the story, taking on a macho society in which systemic homophobic deprives young people of their identities.

themes, language, violence, sexuality

21.Oct.22