The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

Still from Upshot

Maha Haj’s latest Palestinian short film, Upshot, delves deeply into themes of grief, loss, and the enduring strength of familial bonds. The term “upshot“, defined by the Cambridge dictionary as “something that happens as a result of other actions, events, or decisions“, aptly reflects the film’s narrative, set in the aftermath of a mysterious and impactful event.

Plot

The film introduces viewers to an elderly couple living in seclusion on a remote farm. Their daily lives revolve around a series of routines: chopping wood, cooking, and various other chores. Despite their proximity, they work in isolation, coming together only for their meals and discussing their children’s lives.

At each meal, new issues concerning their children surface. One son is grappling with marital problems, their daughter, who is 34 and unmarried, faces pressure from her father to continue her education, while another son is struggling with his job and pursuing his passion for sketching. These discussions are fraught with an underlying sadness, accentuated by the couple’s consistent black attire.

Their monotonous routine is shattered by the arrival of an unwelcome visitor, whose persistent presence unveils a long-held secret and the immense grief that the couple has silently borne.

Themes of War, Loss, and Resilience

Still from Upshot

Upshot addresses the devastating effects of war, particularly highlighting the Palestinian experience and the Israeli invasion of Gaza. The film serves as a powerful reminder of how unresolved grief can linger and torment long after a loved one’s death, painting a haunting picture of Gaza’s plight.

The film is proof of human resilience. The characters of Suleiman and Lubna epitomise the human spirit, demonstrating that even in a world defined by suffering, human imagination and willpower can persevere.

World Premiere at Locarno International Film Festival

Image via Locarno Festival

Upshot is set to make its world premiere at the prestigious Pardi di Domani – Corti d’Autore Competition at the Locarno International Film Festival. This festival, renowned for celebrating groundbreaking cinema and nurturing new talent, provides an ideal platform for Haj’s work to reach an international audience.

Cast

Upshot features a talented cast including Mohammed Bakri, known for award-winning performances and a Career Achievement Award at El Gouna Film Festival. The cast also includes Areen Omari, and Amer Hlehel. The film is directed by Maha Haj, whose previous work, Mediterranean Fever, won Best Screenplay at Cannes’ Un Certain Regard. The production is helmed by Hanna Atallah, recognised for Reports On Sarah and Salem, and the cinematography is handled by Augustin Bonnet, noted for the Oscar-nominated Anatomy Of a Fall.

Our Thoughts

Still from Upshot

Upshot is a gripping drama encompassing the enduring power of familial bonds amidst conflict and loss. It is a heartfelt tribute to the resilience of the human spirit, demonstrating a poignant reflection on the scars of war and the hope that persists despite it all.