Watch Heaven Without People

Heaven Without People is a 2017 Lebanese drama film directed by Lucien Bourjeily. The film features an ensemble cast including Laeticia Semaan, Nadim Abou Samra, and Samira Sarkis. The story of the film revolves around an extended family gathering that takes place during Easter lunch at the patriarch's estate in Lebanon. The family is a traditional, tightly knit Lebanese Christian family that has deep roots in the country's history. They are relatively wealthy and have a beautiful home with a private chapel on their property.

As the family gathers for lunch, tensions quickly arise. Secrets are revealed, family members bicker and squabble, and old rivalries are reignited. The patriarch, Joseph, is the head of the family, and his disapproval of his daughter's engagement leads to a heated argument. As the day progresses, the family's dysfunctionality is revealed in increasingly painful and humiliating ways.

The film explores themes of family dysfunction, generational divides, religious traditions, and Lebanon's complicated history. The characters confront issues of class and sectarianism that continue to plague Lebanese society, despite the country's seemingly cosmopolitan and affluent veneer. The film is an unflinching portrayal of the inner workings of a family, their flaws, and their attempts to overcome them.

The film is shot in a tableau style, with each scene unfolding as a single take, giving the audience an impression of being a fly on the wall at a family gathering. This technique creates a feeling of intimacy with the characters and amplifies the emotional intensity of the story.

The performances in the film are outstanding. Laeticia Semaan is particularly impressive as the matriarch of the family, Marie. She portrays a range of emotions, from fierce protectiveness to vulnerability, with striking authenticity. Nadim Abou Samra delivers a nuanced performance as Joseph, the patriarch of the family, who is grappling with age and his own legacy. The supporting cast is equally strong, with each character adding depth and complexity to the story.

The film's cinematography is gorgeous, with sweeping shots of the Lebanese countryside and the family's estate. The film captures the beauty of Lebanon while also highlighting its flaws and contradictions. The score is haunting and adds to the film's emotional impact.

Heaven Without People is a poignant and raw depiction of a family's dysfunctionality and the complexities of Lebanese society. The film is a powerful reminder that, despite our differences, we are all human and have our own struggles and flaws. The film's message is universal, transcending Lebanon's borders and resonating with audiences around the world.

In conclusion, Heaven Without People is a must-watch for fans of drama films. Its exceptional performances, cinematography, and score make for a thought-provoking and emotional experience. The film is a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of cinema to open our minds and hearts to different cultures and ways of life.