Watch My Josephine

My Josephine is a 2003 short film directed by Barry Jenkins. The film tells the story of an Israeli man named Boaz (played by Basel Hamdan) and a Palestinian woman named Josephine (played by Saba Shariat) who work in neighboring shops in Tel Aviv. The film is primarily shot in black and white, which adds a sense of nostalgia and timelessness to the story.

Boaz and Josephine seem to have a deep, unspoken connection right from the start. They exchange glances and small, meaningful gestures throughout the movie, but never speak to each other directly. Despite the intense political tensions between their two cultures, they seem to find solace in their brief interactions and shared moments of kindness.

The film takes place against the backdrop of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which is subtly referenced throughout. Boaz has a brief conversation with an older man who lost his son in the army, and we see graffiti on the wall of his shop that says "Free Palestine." Josephine becomes agitated when she sees a group of Israeli soldiers walking down the street. But despite the political climate, Boaz and Josephine's relationship blossoms in small, almost imperceptible ways.

One of the most striking aspects of the film is its almost dreamlike quality. The black and white cinematography, combined with the slow pace and lack of dialogue, creates a sense of quiet, contemplative beauty. Jenkins takes his time with each shot, allowing the audience to soak in the details of Boaz and Josephine's world. We see them going about their daily routines, interacting with customers and family members, and stealing glances at one another. It's a simple story, but one that feels deeply human and universal.

Throughout the film, Boaz and Josephine are surrounded by a cast of colorful, eccentric characters, including Boaz's brother and sister-in-law, a group of rowdy teenagers, and a friendly Palestinian shopkeeper. But the heart of the film is the relationship between Boaz and Josephine. They seem to exist in a world of their own, separate from the larger conflicts and tensions surrounding them. It's a small, delicate love story that feels all the more powerful for its understated nature.

The film's soundtrack is also worth mentioning. The score, composed by Nicholas Britell, adds a sense of ethereal beauty to the already dreamlike visuals. At times, the music swells into a lush, romantic melody, underscoring the emotions that Boaz and Josephine are too afraid to express aloud.

My Josephine is a film that asks the viewer to slow down and pay close attention. It's a love story that unfolds in gestures and stolen glances, rather than grand declarations of affection. It's a commentary on the power of human connection, even in the face of immense political division. And it's a reminder that sometimes the most profound stories are the ones that are told in whispers, rather than shouts.