Watch The Crossing

The Crossing is a 2017 Egyptian drama film that tells the story of a group of Syrian refuges that are attempting to cross the Mediterranean and reach Europe. The story follows the struggles of the refugees as they face danger and adversity during their journey. The film is directed by Egyptian filmmaker Shereen Dabis and stars Motaz Malhees, Yara Elham Jarrar, and Nicholas Jarad in the lead roles.

The Crossing captures the devastating reality of the refugee crisis, which is still ongoing today. The film is a powerful portrayal of the struggles that refugees face on a daily basis, from the violence and persecution that forces them to flee their home countries, to the dangerous journey across the sea in search of safety. The film's title refers to the crossing of the Mediterranean, which is a perilous journey that many refugees must make in order to reach Europe.

The film opens with a group of Syrian refugees who are gathered on a boat, preparing to cross the Mediterranean. Among them is Samir (played by Motaz Malhees), a young man who is traveling with his mother, his sister, and his niece. He is eager to leave Syria behind and start a new life in Europe. However, as the boat sets off, they soon encounter a violent storm that threatens to capsize the vessel. The refugees are forced to cling to the sides of the boat, terrified for their lives, as the waves crash over them.

The Crossing then flashes back to the events that led up to the refugees' decision to leave Syria. We see Samir living with his family in a small village, where they are all struggling to make ends meet. Samir's sister, Nada (played by Yara Elham Jarrar), is a talented artist who dreams of studying at a college in Italy. Samir is devoted to his family, and he works tirelessly to support them, but he can see that their situation is hopeless.

As the situation in Syria begins to spiral out of control, the family is forced to flee their home and make their way to Turkey. There, they meet a smuggler who promises to help them reach Europe. The Crossing portrays the smuggler as a manipulative figure who takes advantage of the refugees' desperation. He demands exorbitant fees for his services, and he shows little concern for their safety.

Once the refugees are on the boat, they are at the mercy of the sea. The Crossing portrays the journey across the Mediterranean as an incredibly dangerous undertaking, where even the slightest mistake can lead to disaster. The refugees are vulnerable to attack by pirates, and they are constantly on guard against any threat. They are also subjected to extreme weather conditions, as well as hunger and thirst.

Throughout the film, there are moments of hope and moments of despair. The Crossing portrays the refugees as courageous and resilient, even in the face of overwhelming adversity. They form tight bonds with one another, supporting each other through difficult times. However, the film also shows the toll that the journey takes on them, both physically and emotionally. The refugees are haunted by memories of the violence and persecution they have experienced, and they are uncertain of what the future will hold for them.

Without giving too much away, The Crossing concludes with a powerful message that emphasizes the humanity of the refugees. The film is a stark reminder of the ongoing refugee crisis, and the struggles that refugees must endure in order to seek safety and a better life. It is a film that is both heartbreaking and inspiring, and it stands as a testament to the human spirit in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, The Crossing is a must-watch film for anyone who cares about the refugee crisis and wants to gain a deeper understanding of the struggles that refugees face. The film is a poignant and powerful portrayal of the journey across the Mediterranean, and it is a reminder that we must do more to help those who are fleeing violence and persecution. Despite the bleak subject matter, The Crossing is a beautiful film that offers hope and inspiration to all who watch it.