Watch Lamya's Poem

Lamya's Poem is a 2021 animated feature that presents a heart-rending fusion of historical drama and poetic contemplation, woven into a narrative that spans time and geography. The movie primarily revolves around the themes of hope, resilience, and the enduring nature of words and poetry as a source of solace and strength in the face of adversity.

At the heart of Lamya's Poem is the titular character, Lamya, a 12-year-old Syrian refugee brilliantly voiced by Millie Davis. Lamya is a bright and imaginative girl whose life has been uprooted by the horrors of war. Yet amidst the devastation, she finds an unlikely source of comfort and inspiration: the poetry of the famous 13th-century Persian poet, Jalaluddin Rumi.

Voiced by Faran Tahir, Rumi's character in the film is not merely a historical figure but serves as a spiritual guide and companion to Lamya. His poetry, revered for centuries for its depth and beauty, becomes a vital link between the past and the present. Rumi's words echo through the ages, bridging cultural and temporal divides, and they reach Lamya when she needs them most.

One of the unique aspects of Lamya's Poem is how the narrative navigates between two timelines. On one end, it traces the tumultuous life of young Rumi himself, providing a glimpse into the challenges and transformations that shaped him into the renowned mystic poet. This part of the movie lends itself to a rich historical backdrop and a deeper understanding of the adversity from which Rumi's timeless poetry sprung forth.

On the other end of the spectrum, we follow Lamya's difficult journey as a modern-day refugee. The movie does not shy away from the perils and emotional toll that such an experience engenders. Viewers are exposed to the stark reality of displacement and the struggle to find hope in the midst of chaos.

Mena Massoud lends his voice to a pivotal character that bridges these two worlds. His portrayal adds an additional layer of depth to the poetic dialogue between the past and present, illustrating how the wisdom of bygone eras can still resonate powerfully today.

The animation style of Lamya's Poem is notable for its ethereal and evocative aesthetic. It employs a blend of dreamlike sequences and more grounded, realistic depictions, creating a cinematic tapestry that visually reflects the inner world of its characters. The animation serves not just as a storytelling medium but as a visual metaphor for the transformative power of poetry and the internal landscapes it can conjure.

The film's sound design and score contribute significantly to the storytelling, with traditional Middle Eastern music accompanying the journey and enhancing the emotional impact of key scenes. The music acts as an auditory bridge, much like Rumi's poems, bringing the audience into a transcendent state where barriers between times are softened.

Lamya's Poem is also a culturally rich piece, offering glimpses into Middle Eastern history and literature. It invites the audience to appreciate the richness of a region's cultural heritage and reminds us of the treasures that have endured through centuries of human experience.

Directed with a keen sense of empathy and poetic resonance, the movie balances its heavier themes with a delicate touch. It's a film that respects the intelligence and emotional capacity of its audience, prompting introspection and a deeper understanding of the common threads that tie humanity together regardless of time or place.

The story is ultimately about the transformative power of storytelling and the importance of finding one's voice. As Lamya navigates her challenging circumstances, she engages with Rumi’s poetry, which ignites her imagination and empowers her to write her own poem. This creative process is shown as a powerful act of reclaiming agency in a world where so much seems beyond one's control.

For educators and parents, Lamya's Poem provides a springboard for discussions about history, literature, and current events in a manner that is accessible to younger audiences without being oversimplified. It deftly handles its mature themes in a way that resonates with both children and adults.

In sum, Lamya's Poem is a thoughtfully crafted film that balances sobering truths about the human condition with the beautiful possibilities that arise from engaging with our rich literary heritage. It is both an ode to the timeless nature of great art and a reminder of the light that can be found even amidst the darkness of difficult circumstances. The movie not only entertains but also educates and inspires, making it a significant cinematic endeavor with a powerful message at its core.

Lamya's Poem is a 2023 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 29 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.0.