Beirut on Screen: How “Only Rebels Win” Reflects a Global Shift in Love and Identity
“Succession” star Hiam Abbass takes on a dramatically different role in Danielle Arbid’s “Only Rebels Win,” a film opening the Berlin Panorama section. The story centers on Susan, a 65-year-classic widow in Beirut, and her unexpected romance with Osman, a young Sudanese immigrant. This isn’t simply a love story; it’s a reflection of evolving societal norms and a growing cinematic trend towards exploring unconventional relationships against complex geopolitical backdrops.
The Rise of Age-Gap Romances in Film
While age-gap romances aren’t new, their prominence in contemporary cinema is increasing. Films like “Only Rebels Win” are part of a broader movement challenging traditional narratives around love and relationships. This shift mirrors real-world trends, with increasing acceptance of diverse partnerships. The film’s setting in Beirut adds another layer of complexity, highlighting the intersection of age, immigration, and societal prejudice.
Beyond Western Narratives: The Power of Setting
Director Danielle Arbid deliberately chose Beirut as the backdrop for this story. Initially considering setting the film in France, she realized the narrative would carry more weight in a location where societal pressures are more pronounced. This decision underscores a growing trend in filmmaking: moving away from solely Western-centric narratives to explore universal themes within specific cultural contexts. Arbid notes that setting the story in Lebanon, rather than a Western country, amplifies the struggles faced by those who are different – whether due to age, race, or immigration status.
Humanity Amidst Crisis: A Cinematic Response to Global Displacement
“Only Rebels Win” directly addresses the plight of refugees and the dehumanization often experienced by displaced individuals. Arbid emphasizes the importance of portraying the “same humanity” in war-torn regions as exists elsewhere, countering the tendency to reduce individuals to mere statistics. This aligns with a broader trend in documentary and narrative filmmaking that seeks to give voice to marginalized communities and challenge prevailing stereotypes. The film’s focus on a Sudanese immigrant worker highlights the often-overlooked experiences of African migrants in the Middle East.
Challenging Societal Norms: A “Little Bomb” of a Film
Arbid describes her film as “throwing a small bomb” – a deliberate attempt to provoke reaction and spark conversation. This reflects a growing willingness among filmmakers to tackle politically charged themes and challenge societal norms. The film’s exploration of an age-gap romance, coupled with its depiction of immigration and cultural clashes, is designed to disrupt conventional thinking and encourage empathy. The film’s resonance is heightened by a world that, as Arbid points out, is “regressing” in its acceptance of difference.
Hiam Abbass: A Versatile Performer Embracing Complex Roles
Hiam Abbass’s portrayal of Susan marks a departure from her acclaimed role as Marcia Roy in “Succession.” However, Abbass herself doesn’t witness a demand to compare characters, viewing each role as a distinct entity. This approach reflects a commitment to fully embodying each character without imposing preconceived notions. Her ability to seamlessly transition between vastly different roles demonstrates her versatility as an actress and her dedication to bringing complex characters to life.
The Director-Actor Relationship: A Collaborative Process
Abbass emphasizes the importance of collaboration with the director, prioritizing the realization of their vision. This highlights the crucial role of the director-actor relationship in shaping a film’s narrative and emotional impact. She doesn’t prepare emotionally for scenes, instead relying on the dynamic between herself, her fellow actors, and Arbid.
The Future of Socially Conscious Cinema
“Only Rebels Win” exemplifies a growing trend towards socially conscious cinema that tackles complex issues with nuance and sensitivity. This trend is likely to continue as filmmakers increasingly seek to employ their platform to raise awareness, challenge injustice, and promote empathy. The film’s success will likely encourage further exploration of similar themes in future projects.
FAQ
Q: What is “Only Rebels Win” about?
A: It’s a love story between a 65-year-old widow in Beirut and a young Sudanese immigrant, exploring themes of age, immigration, and societal prejudice.
Q: Who stars in “Only Rebels Win”?
A: Hiam Abbass and Amine Benrachid are the lead actors.
Q: Where did the film premiere?
A: It opened the Berlin Panorama section.
Q: What is Danielle Arbid’s intention with this film?
A: To highlight the humanity of refugees and explore the possibility of love in unexpected circumstances.
Did you know? The film was boarded by Fandango Sales ahead of its Berlin premiere.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for films emerging from the Berlin Film Festival – it’s a key indicator of emerging trends in international cinema.
What are your thoughts on age-gap romances and their portrayal in film? Share your opinions in the comments below!
