Watch WAJIB

Set in the Palestinian city of Nazareth, Wajib is a beautifully crafted drama that explores the cultural and generational divide between a father and son. Directed by Annemarie Jacir, the film is a stirring exploration of family, tradition, and the importance of honoring one's roots. As the title suggests, the film centers on the tradition of wajib, a Palestinian custom that dictates that the sons of a family must deliver invitations to all their relatives for their sister's wedding. The father, Abu Shadi (played by Mohammad Bakri), who is a respected schoolteacher in the community, enlists the help of his son, Shadi (played by Saleh Bakri), who has returned from Italy where he is a successful architect. The duo spends a day driving through the city, delivering invitations, and reconnecting with old family members.

The film beautifully captures the fractious relationship between the father and son. Abu Shadi is a traditionalist, fiercely proud of his Palestinian heritage, and is convinced that the younger generation is losing touch with their identity. On the other hand, Shadi is living a modern, cosmopolitan lifestyle and is generally out of touch with the traditions and customs of his homeland.

The film features some breathtaking scenery, as the father and son drive around the city, stopping to chat with family members and friends along the way. The conversations that take place, while seemingly insignificant, speak volumes about the cultural and generational differences at play here.

One of the most notable scenes in the film takes place when the father and son visit Abu Shadi's sister. The old woman may be hard of hearing, but she has the energy and spirit of a young girl. She ribs both the father and son about their differences, challenging Shadi's modern sensibilities and teasing Abu Shadi about his rigid adherence to tradition. The scene is a perfect example of the film's subtle yet powerful explorations of the generational divide.

There is a sense of nostalgia that permeates the entire film. As they drive past old landmarks, like the town hall and the city fountain, the father and son reminisce about their childhood, the good times they had with family and friends, and the stories and legends that have been passed down through generations.

At the same time, there is a palpable tension that underscores the film. While Shadi respects his father's traditions, he's frustrated at times by the father's stubborn adherence to certain practices. There are moments of conflict between the two, as they butt heads over politics, religion, and the best way to honor the family's traditions.

Wajib is a powerful, emotional journey that is both poignant and thought-provoking. It's a reminder of the importance of family, tradition, and the bonds that tie us together, even in the face of cultural and generational divides.

The film is masterfully directed, with stunning cinematography that captures the beauty and complexity of life in Nazareth. The father and son are brought to life by two brilliant performances from Mohammad Bakri and Saleh Bakri. They are both fantastic, capturing the tension and conflict between the two, while also conveying a deep sense of love and respect for each other.

In summary, Wajib is a beautifully crafted film that explores the relationship between a father and son, tradition and modernity, and the importance of honoring one's roots. With gorgeous scenery, wonderful performances, and a powerful emotional journey, this is a film that will leave a lasting impression.