Amjad Al Rasheed’s debut feature film, INSHALLAH A BOY, mesmerizes with its captivating narrative set in modern Jordan. Selected for the prestigious International Critics’ Week at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival, this thought-provoking film immerses audiences in a web of tradition, religion, and the struggles of a woman navigating a male-dominated society.
The story revolves around Nawal, portrayed with remarkable depth by Mouna Hawa. When Nawal’s husband unexpectedly passes away, she finds herself fighting for her rightful share of the estate in a society where having a son holds significant societal weight. Director Amjad Al Rasheed brings a heightened sense of realism reminiscent of Iranian cinema, delving into Nawal’s journey as she confronts the coercive forces of patriarchy, tradition, and religion that threaten her sense of womanhood.
INSHALLAH A BOY masterfully captures Nawal’s constrained existence, both physically and metaphorically. Through powerful visual compositions, we witness her confined within her home, peering out through barred windows or navigating the intimidating hallways of the courthouse. The film expertly conveys the ongoing battle Nawal faces, not for complete independence in an inherently restrictive society, but for her own damaged sense of identity and womanhood.
As Nawal takes the wheel of a van, despite her lack of experience, her daughter observes from the safety of a barred kitchen window. It is through this poignant scene that the film highlights the strength and resilience passed down through generations. Nawal’s struggle for autonomy and freedom becomes an inspiration for her daughter, a symbol of hope for the future within a male-dominated culture.
The exceptional performances of the cast, including Mouna Hawa as Nawal, Hitham Omari as Rifqi, YUMNA MARWAN as Lauren, Salwa Nakkara as Souad, and Mohammed Al Jizawi as Ahmad, bring depth and authenticity to the characters’ emotional journeys. The screenplay, a collaboration between Amjad Al Rasheed, Rula Nasser, and Delphine Agut, skillfully navigates the complexities of the narrative, while Kanamé Onoyama’s cinematography captures the essence of the story with breathtaking visuals.
Produced by Rula Nasser and Aseel Abu Ayyash at The Imaginarium Films, with co-production from Bayt Al Shawareb, Yousef Abed Alnabi, Raphael Alexandre, and Nicolas Leprtre at Georges Films, INSHALLAH A BOY is a testament to the power of storytelling. Its international sales are handled by Pyramide International, ensuring its reach to global audiences captivated by its profound exploration of societal norms, personal struggle, and the indomitable spirit of hope.
