Capernaum

Capernaum is a Lebanese drama film that tells the story of a 12-year-old boy who sues his parents for the "crime" of giving him life in a world of poverty and suffering.

"Capernaum by Nadine Labaki: A heart-wrenching journey of a 12-year-old boy navigating the harsh realities of life in Beirut's slums. A poignant commentary on child neglect, poverty, and the refugee crisis. #Capernaum #NadineLabaki #MustWatch"

"Capernaum: Street kid Zain sues his parents for neglect after surviving through theft and hustling in Beirut. He befriends an Ethiopian cleaner and cares for her baby when she's detained. A raw, heartbreaking look at childhood in poverty."

Just watched Nadine Labaki's "Capernaum". A heart-wrenching portrayal of a 12-year-old boy's struggle for survival in the slums and his subsequent lawsuit against his parents for giving him life in such a harsh world. A stark reminder of the grim realities faced by many children around the world. A must-watch! #Capernaum #RealityCheck

Capernaum is a powerful and emotional drama directed by Nadine Labaki. The film follows the story of 12-year-old Zain, a streetwise boy living in the slums of Beirut. After running away from his abusive parents, Zain finds himself taking care of a young Ethiopian refugee, Rahil, and her baby, Yonas. Despite their difficult living conditions, Zain and Rahil form a strong bond and he becomes a surrogate father to Yonas. However, when Rahil is arrested, Zain is left to fend for himself and Yonas. Determined to give his "family" a better life, Zain takes them on a journey through the city, facing numerous challenges and hardships along the way. Through Zain's eyes, the film sheds light on the struggles of poverty, immigration, and the resilience of the human spirit. Capernaum is a heartbreaking and thought-provoking film that will leave a lasting impact on its audience.

• Zain: A 12-year-old boy living in poverty in the slums of Beirut, Lebanon. He is the main character and narrator of the film.
• Sahar: Zain’s 11-year-old sister, who is forced into marriage by their parents.
• Aspro: A young Ethiopian woman who works as a cleaner for Zain’s family.
• Rahil: A young undocumented Ethiopian woman who befriends Zain and takes him in when he runs away from home.
• Yonas: Rahil’s young son, who Zain takes care of while Rahil is at work.
• Assad: Zain’s father, who is a drug addict and often physically abuses Zain and his siblings.
• Souad: Zain’s mother, who is overwhelmed by poverty and the responsibility of caring for her children.
• Chadi: A lawyer who helps Zain file a lawsuit against his parents for neglect and abuse.

The film opens with Zain being brought to court to sue his parents for giving him life. The judge is initially skeptical, but Zain insists on telling his story. We then see a flashback of Zain’s life in the slums of Beirut. He is the oldest of six children and is forced to work to help support his family. Zain is close with his sister Sahar, but their parents are often absent and neglectful.

One day, Zain’s parents sell Sahar to be married to their landlord’s son. Zain is devastated and runs away from home. He meets Rahil, an undocumented Ethiopian woman, who takes him in and gives him food and shelter. Zain helps take care of Rahil’s young son Yonas while she is at work. Zain and Yonas form a strong bond and Zain becomes like a big brother to him.

Rahil is eventually arrested and deported, leaving Zain to take care of Yonas on his own. Zain struggles to provide for himself and Yonas, resorting to stealing and odd jobs. He also meets Aspro, a young Ethiopian woman who works as a cleaner for Zain’s family. She helps Zain and Yonas by giving them food and shelter.

Meanwhile, Zain’s parents are arrested for neglect and child endangerment. Zain is brought to the courthouse to testify against them, but he refuses to speak. Chadi, a lawyer, takes an interest in Zain’s case and offers to help him. Zain eventually agrees to testify and tells the court about the abuse and neglect he and his siblings have endured.

The court rules in Zain’s favor and his parents are sentenced to prison. Zain is placed in a juvenile detention center, where he is reunited with Sahar. However, he is determined to find a better life for himself and Yonas. He escapes from the center and takes Yonas to the beach, where they play and enjoy their freedom.

The film ends with Zain and Yonas walking through the streets of Beirut, with Zain narrating about the struggles of children living in poverty and the injustice they face. Zain vows to never forget Yonas and to always fight for children’s rights.

In conclusion, Capernaum is a powerful and emotional film that sheds light on the harsh realities faced by children living in poverty. Through Zain’s story, the film highlights issues such as child marriage, abuse, and neglect, and the resilience and strength of children in the face of adversity. Labaki’s direction and the performances of the young actors make this film a must-see for anyone looking to understand the struggles of marginalized communities.

1. What is the movie Capernaum about?
   The movie follows the story of a young boy named Zain who sues his parents for giving him life in a world of poverty and struggle.
2. Who directed Capernaum?
   The movie was directed by Nadine Labaki.
3. When was Capernaum released?
   The movie was released in 2018.
4. Where is Capernaum set?
   The movie is set in the slums of Beirut, Lebanon.
5. Is Capernaum based on a true story?
   No, the movie is a work of fiction.
6. What language is Capernaum in?
   The movie is primarily in Arabic, with some French and Amharic.
7. What awards has Capernaum won?
   The movie has won numerous awards, including the Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival and the Audience Award at the Toronto International Film Festival.
8. Is Capernaum available on streaming platforms?
   Yes, the movie is available on Netflix.
9. What is the age rating for Capernaum?
   The movie is rated R for language and some disturbing content.
10. Who plays the main character in Capernaum?
    The main character, Zain, is played by Zain Al Rafeea, a Syrian refugee.
11. What is the meaning of the title Capernaum?
    Capernaum is a biblical reference to a town where Jesus performed miracles, symbolizing the hope for a better life in the midst of despair.
12. Is Capernaum a sad movie?
    Yes, the movie deals with heavy themes and can be emotionally difficult to watch.
13. What is the message of Capernaum?
    The movie sheds light on the struggles of marginalized communities and the resilience of the human spirit.
14. Is Capernaum a feminist movie?
    Yes, the movie explores the challenges faced by women in a patriarchal society.
15. What is the runtime of Capernaum?
    The movie has a runtime of 2 hours and 6 minutes.
16. Is there a happy ending in Capernaum?
    The ending of the movie is open to interpretation, but it does offer a glimmer of hope.
17. What is the significance of the cockroach in Capernaum?
    The cockroach represents the resilience and survival instincts of the characters in the movie.
18. Is Capernaum a political movie?
    Yes, the movie addresses political issues such as poverty, immigration, and child rights.
19. What is the role of children in Capernaum?
    Children play a central role in the movie, highlighting the impact of poverty and neglect on their lives.
20. Is Capernaum a tearjerker?
    Yes, the movie can be emotionally intense and may bring tears to viewers’ eyes.
21. What is the cinematography like in Capernaum?
    The movie features gritty and realistic cinematography, capturing the harsh realities of life in the slums.
22. Is there a love story in Capernaum?
    No, the movie focuses on the bond between family and friends rather than romantic relationships.
23. What is the role of music in Capernaum?
    The movie uses music to enhance the emotional impact of certain scenes.
24. Is Capernaum a religious movie?
    No, while the title has religious connotations, the movie does not have a religious theme.
25. What is the social commentary in Capernaum?
    The movie offers a commentary on the social and economic inequalities in Lebanon and other parts of the world.
26. Is Capernaum a must-watch movie?
    Many critics and viewers consider Capernaum to be a powerful and thought-provoking film that is worth watching.