Watch The Queen Has No Crown

The Queen Has No Crown is a documentary film directed by Tomer Heymann. The film focuses on the personal story of Heymann's family; it explores identity, sexuality, and the immigrant experience. The Queen Has No Crown is a thought-provoking and intimate portrayal of a family struggling with acceptance and self-discovery. The film opens with Heymann's brother Barak in a recording studio, singing a song in Hebrew. The lyrics of the song speak to the need for acceptance and the pain of rejection. Barak is an aspiring musician, struggling to make a name for himself. The scene sets the tone for the rest of the film; it's emotional, raw, and deeply personal.

Following the opening scene, the film shifts focus to Heymann's parents. They are both immigrants to Israel, and their struggle to assimilate in a new country is evident. Heymann's father tells stories of his upbringing in Egypt, where his family was a minority. He speaks of being taunted by other children for being Jewish, and the pain of feeling like an outsider. Heymann's mother, on the other hand, came to Israel from Poland, and her experience was very different. She talks about the shock of moving to a country where the language and culture were foreign to her.

As the film unfolds, the camera follows the family through significant life events. We see Heymann's brother coming out to his parents, and the resulting strain on their relationship. We also witness the birth of Heymann's nephew and the subsequent joy and light it brings to the family. Throughout these events, Heymann uses music to connect the audience to his family's experiences, creating an emotional bond through song and melody.

One of the themes that run through The Queen Has No Crown is the struggle for acceptance. Heymann's brother comes out as gay to his family, and his father struggles to reconcile his love for his son with his conservative views on homosexuality. The tension in the family is palpable, and the film does not shy away from showing the difficult conversations and emotions that come with this type of revelation. However, as the film progresses, Heymann's father begins to come to terms with his son's sexuality, demonstrating that love and acceptance can conquer even the most fundamental differences.

The Queen Has No Crown is also a film about the power of expression. Heymann's brother uses music as a means to express himself and tell his story. The film features several performances by Barak, where he sings songs that speak to his experiences as a gay man. The lyrics are emotional and poignant, and they add depth to the film's exploration of identity and acceptance.

Throughout the film, Heymann himself is present but largely unseen. His voice is only heard a few times, and he never appears on screen. This deliberate absence allows the audience to focus on the story of his family rather than the filmmaker. However, the ending of the film brings the audience back to Heymann, revealing how his family's experiences have shaped his own art and creative process.

In conclusion, The Queen Has No Crown is a moving and thought-provoking documentary film. It offers an intimate glimpse into the struggles of a family trying to find acceptance and a sense of belonging. The use of music adds depth and emotion to the story, creating a connection with the audience that goes beyond the screen. The film is a testament to the power of expression, love, and acceptance in the face of adversity.