Set in a bustling Brussels school, “Amal” takes the viewers on a problematic and unavoidable journey of ideological prejudice and tolerance. Directed by Jawad Rhalib, the film serves as a poignant exploration of identity, resilience, and the complexities of multiculturalism. Writing “the last day of a condemned man” by Victor Hugo on the board, “Amal”, a devoted teacher to enlightenment, brings the debates of death penalty into the class and encounters the audience with the dark side of ideologies in which many are deprived of mundane aspects of life.
Jawad Rhalib, the Belgian-Moroccan filmmaker, pursues a career marked by his activism, and his attention to the issues facing contemporary societies. He narrates this reflection in a fictional form, painting the flaming portrait of a literature professor shown in competition at the Black Nights Film Festival in Tallinn.
The film revolves around Amal, performing by Lubna Azabal who finds herself in the midst of a diverse classroom, filled with students from different cultural backgrounds. Rhalib adeptly portrays the challenges faced by both the teacher and her students as they navigate through personal hurdles and societal pressures. Monia (Kenza Benbouchta) has opted to openly embrace her queer identity, breaking the vow of discretion commended by her father, who is loving but concerned about his daughter’s and family’s safety. Jalila (Ethelle Gonzalez Lardued) who suffers from discrimination, putting on her vail as she leaves the school, projects all her shadows on the lesbian Monia, full of anger and hatred. Rachid (Mehdi Khachachi) wonders about his convictions, which he believes are his own, but which could be the ones we sought to impose on him.
The students coming from Islamic ideology to the openness of European pupils are all in Amal’s class – the moderator that tries to bring our free speech, understanding, and wide spectrum of ideas through the power of literature. In the heart of a restless day of all the conflict in the class, she decides to introduce an Arab Poet who has Transexual tendency and bravely depicts his love beyond conventional boundaries via his poetries – the ones that Muslims of the Class name “Haram” or forbidden. Reading “Bacchanalian and Libertine” by “Abu Nawas” inflames the debates among the pupils and even provokes their families to approach the principal about the flaws of the school system.
One of the film’s greatest strengths lies in its sharp and honest character development. Amal emerges as a fully fleshed-out protagonist, with her own vulnerabilities and insecurities. The director unravels her story with grace, unveiling the layers of her determination and unyielding spirit. Each student in Amal’s class is given their moment to shine, as Rhalib delves into their respective backgrounds, capturing their struggles and hopes for a better future.
The film effectively highlights the transformative power of education, showcasing how Amal’s passion and dedication impact the lives of her students. Through her dedicated teaching methods and genuine care for her students, Amal encourages them to embrace their identities and celebrate their diverse heritage. As she fights for Monia’s rights and motivates her to choose a life as a lesbian. This theme is skillfully woven into the narrative, making the viewer realize the significance of free speech. The film truly exemplified the hardship on the road of freedom – coming out from the dark ages and touching the delight of renaissances in history. Liberty has always required brave hearted individuals and pioneers who have no fear of stating the truth. This encouragement is brilliantly well portrayed in Amal’s anger against the school authority who does not stand against Nabil (Fabrizio Rongione); Nabil, who teaches Islamic rules and strongly believes in his own God.
Steven Pinker, the cognitive psychologist, and the author of “Rationality: What It Is, Why It Seems Scarce, Why It Matters”, in one of his debates with Richard Dawkins, the British evolutionary biologist, spots human emotions and his priorities in terms of individuals interests and survival. He believes humans cannot make a rational decision in critical situations and in ideological fundamentalism his reaction can ruin the hundred years of civilization in a blink of an eye.
Now, Jawad Rhalib put the whole debate in the nutshell of cinema with “Amal”, in which we can follow philosophical, psychological, social, and cultural differences in an empathic approach. As Jalila calls Monia “Karaba” or prostitute, we perceive a deep narrative behind it and all the highs and lows of life shaping her mentality.
Visually, “Amal” is a treat to watch. The cinematography exquisitely captures the diversity of ideas, the movement of the camera on faces, eyes, gesture, and posture dynamically illustrates the intensity of ideas in some, and the visual hesitation on Amal depicts the desperation of a teacher struggling to cultivate awareness, peace, and knowledge. The use of color and lighting adds depth to the storytelling, enhancing the emotional impact of pivotal scenes.
“Amal” is a compelling and heartfelt film that skillfully explores themes of multiculturalism, resilience, and the power of education. Jawad Rhalib’s direction, coupled with captivating performances and a poignant screenplay, creates a cinematic experience that will resonate with audiences. “Amal” leaves an indelible mark, reminding us of the immense value of empathy, understanding and the price of human gained freedom in a world where diversity of opinion and aversion is on the rise.
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