We are in the deserts of southern Israel, a father and daughter are travelling in an SUV after what’s probably a shopping trip, the girl “Layla” is driving and the father “Suliman” is attentively asking about her studies and the need to study well. As we think what a progressive father he is, the car enters their Bedouin village, which is getting ready for a wedding – for the second marriage of the father to a younger bride.
Layla’s mother (Suliman’s first wife) “Jalila” is busy making the arrangements for the wedding party, while concealing her disappointment and betrayal of her husband. As the wedding progresses Jalila discovers that Layla may be in love with a boy from a different tribe, she confronts Layla who believes strongly that her father will approve of her love once he sees her choice. Unfortunately, it doesn’t turn out that way – Suliman banishes(!) Jalila, and Layla is forced to make a tough choice.
The entire film mostly happens in and around the house in the desert village, virtually transporting us to a tough environment where women are constantly overruled by the patriarchal figures in their family.
Ruba Blal as Jalila
(right in the picture) Hitham Omari as Suliman
Available on Netflix India.
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