1982

Shouldn't be on Netflix, it is extremely bad, many wrong msgs, i can't believe they participated in cannes festivals or even thought it will lead them somewhere, I've seen short movies for students and unfortunately it was beter big time.

I stumbled upon this film by accident while researching a different movie I found it quite captivating as it provided a different perspective on a conflict that I was somewhat familiar with. I found the actors for the most part quite believable and in many cases, the storyline was very touching. The young stars at the centre of the story are consummate actors and I will be looking forward to seeing more of their performances, I was; however disappointed with the ending as it seemed amateurish and to be totally out of place with a very professional piece that had proceeded it. But for the disappointing end, I thurally enjoyed the film and would recommend it heartly.

Oualid Mouaness' debut film "1982" is a beautifully blended coming-of-age tale that follows the 1982 invasion of Lebanon as seen through the eyes of a schoolboy who tries relentlessly to announce his love to a classmate on the same evening that disaster strikes. Mouaness, who in addition to directing, wrote and produced this film, which is unlike any other in its ability to draw emotion and suspense with the subtlety and grace of a true auteur. With exquisite performances from Mohamad Dalli (Wissam) and Nadine Labaki (Yasmine), this script becomes a story that is as palpable as it is entertaining, consistently delivering on effective blocking and delivery that progresses the film organically. As effective as the dialogue and action are, however, I would be remiss not to mention what is possibly the film's greatest strength, its silences. Mouaness strategically injects the action with silences that elevate this film to a new level of excellence, drawing out each interaction and allowing the impact of this event to fully wash over the audience. "1982" is one of the finest contemporary examples of narrative cinema, and one that will continue to push the envelope of what it means to be a filmmaker.

I have been watching many foreign and indy movies on Kanopy, and this was a wonderful surprise. The story set against the backdrop of the events in Lebanon in 1982 felt highly realistic. I cared about the characters, especially the young lead. For those of us in the US blessed with never having experienced invasion, the backdrop of war and how it affects people's lives was a jarring reminder. It especially seems so for the middle-class Lebanese depicted here. I knew the tragedies that would soon be upon Beirut, and it was affecting. Afterwards, I looked up the history; it was extraordinarily convoluted. Perhaps it was as baffling to these Lebanese, who must have wondered what in the world was happening to their country.

I cannot understand 6.3 rate of this movie on IMDB and poor critics reviews. Perfect rhytm. Excellent avoidance of plitisation. Astonishing kids acting. Perfect tension dramaturgy. What do you expect, dear intellectuals?