We all know that Netflix doesn’t have a wide variety of good movies, and the ones they do provide can only be watched so many times before you get bored (besides Moana, obviously). Next time you’re struggling to find a good movie to watch, consider one of these amazing Arabic Language films.
1. Sand Storm
Sand Storm is a drama that takes place in Southern Israel; it follows Layla, a Palestinian-Bedouin teenager, whose forbidden love affair with a boy from another Bedouin tribe challenges the traditions of her mother and father. This film will keep you on the edge of your seat, waiting anxiously for what will happen next. It’s full of drama, romance (the whole “star-crossed lovers” theme), feminism, and so forth. What I loved about this movie was that it was about a girl who challenged and questioned traditions. You aren’t just shown her story: you experience it. So if you’re ever in the mood for a romantic drama or a feminist tale, put this film at the top of your to-watch list.
2. Barakah Meets Barakah
Barakah Meets Barakah is one of my utmost favorite films of all time. It’s a Saudi rom-com that follows Barakah, a laid-back civil servant from the middle class and Barakah (Bibi), a wealthy model and vlogger and their forbidden romance that is frowned upon by Saudi society. The film shows the difficulty and struggles the younger generation faces in trying to date, the cultural differences between the middle and upper class, the repression of the arts, and so forth. Next time you’re in the mood for a rom-com, consider this option for your movie night!
3. The Idol
The Idol is a Palestinian drama based off the life of Arab Idol winner, Mohammed Assaf, a Palestinian who grew up in Gaza. The film follows his amazing story, from his childhood in Gaza where his aspirations to be a singer first began to him winning Arab Idol. It’s a true underdog film packed with adventure, drama, a bit of romance, and so much more that keeps you rooting for Assaf the entire time. It’s also a film about Palestinian national pride and how Assaf comes to be a symbol of hope for millions of Palestinians.