Angry Birds with my Baby Birds

Why so angry?

If you are anything like our family then you too might also know a couple of crazy birdies in your nest addicted to the insane slingshooting of colorful bird-balls onto green pigs villages. In our case, papa-bird and his graceful daughter spent hours perfecting their aim and demolishing pig homes. 

But why? Why so angry, little birdies?

Photo: R. Abouzeid

Well my happy-angry crew and I were lucky enough to be invited to the premiere of Angry Birds The Movie yesterday at Reel Cinemas in City Walk 2 and the answer to that question was finally revealed.

Photo: R. Abouzeid

The red carpet treatment is always a blast and we got to pose with the stars of the film which was the highlight of my five year old's day. And let me tell you, she is not easily pleased. If you own one of those at home, you probably know they have very particular opinions on things and events and they are not easily impressed. But we were greeted with essentials which made all the difference: a pair of sunglasses and a micro coloring kit (so cool). She was sold. I mean, who does not like a funky pair of glasses, right?

Photo: R. Abouzeid

And bonus for mommy, the formidable photo booth by Fishfayce which transforms regular snaps into brilliant little flip books!

Photo: R. Abouzeid

Photo: R. Abouzeid

Photo: R. Abouzeid

My talented daughter also seized the opportunity to release the artist within at the coloring tables which she categorically refused to leave before her chef-d'oeuvre was completed, not even to try face painting or Angry Birds Yoga which looked like so much fun. Seriously, those poses were brilliant!

Photo: R. Abouzeid

Armed with snacks and excitement, we entered the theater and took our seats. Pop corn, water and seat booster in places, we were ready.

Photo: TOH Public Relations

"The movie takes us to an island populated entirely by happy, flightless birds – or almost entirely. In this paradise, Red (Jason Sudeikis, We're the Millers, Horrible Bosses), a bird with a temper problem, speedy Chuck (Josh Gad in his first animated role since Frozen), and the volatile Bomb (Danny McBride, This is the End, Eastbound and Down) have always been outsiders. But when the island is visited by mysterious green piggies, it’s up to these unlikely outcasts to figure out what the pigs are up to."

Photo: TOH Public Relations

Turns out, those birds are not just furious because of their unfortunate disproportionate eyebrows. They happen to have good reasons! 

No spoilers here, you will have to head to the cinemas on May 12 and find out what those reasons are for yourself!

Photo: TOH Public Relations

The kids had loads of fun and we all had great laughs. The script is funny and appeals to audiences of all ages with not only jokes for the grown-ups but also a soundtrack that will take you back in time with remixes of oldies and classics.

Photo: R. Abouzeid

Absolute bonus: the film is released in both English and Arabic and quite frankly, this is a refreshing change. Initiatives of the sort are a real need in the region and Arab audiences always welcome localized content. But so far, this has been very limited and mostly produced for television. Hopefully, more investments will follow that direction and bring Arab audiences the blockbusters they love in Arabic, simultaneously with the releases of original versions.

Photo: TOH Public Relations

Raya Abi Rached (Scoop With Raya, Arabs Got Talent), who features as the voice of Souka in the Arabic version (Mathilda in English), said: “It is hugely important to have these films localised. It happens in every big movie market in the world like Germany, France and Italy. They always have a localized performance for the local audience. This transformation will give Arab audiences a chance to engage more with the film alongside their English speaking counterparts.”

Mario Jr. Haddad, Vice President, Empire International Gulf adds: “Empire is honored to bring The Angry Birds Movie to the Middle-East in English and Arabic. We have made a strategic decision to invest in Arabic content and we believe that this is just the beginning of a major shift in the way that the local market consumes Hollywood made blockbusters,” he continued, “with more than 45% of the GCC population (excluding Saudi Arabia) being movie goers, there is a lot of room for growth and development.”

Photo: R. Abouzeid

About Rovio 
Rovio Entertainment Ltd. is a global entertainment media company. Headquartered in Finland and with studios across the world, Rovio is the creator of Angry Birds, the casual mobile game that changed an industry and became an international phenomenon. Today Angry Birds is not only the most downloaded game of all time, it is a renowned entertainment brand that has branched out into animation, books, licensing and more. The Angry Birds Movie is slated for release in the Middle-East on May 12th, 2016. www.rovio.com

About Sony Pictures Entertainment 
Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) is a subsidiary of Sony Entertainment Inc., a subsidiary of Tokyo- based Sony Corporation. SPE's global operations encompass motion picture production, acquisition and distribution; television production, acquisition and distribution; television networks; digital content creation and distribution; operation of studio facilities; and development of new entertainment products, services and technologies. http://www.sonypictures.com.

About Empire International Gulf
Established and headquartered in Beirut since 1919, Empire International is a leading movie distributor in the Middle East. The company is the exclusive distributor for Sony Pictures Releasing International, 20th Century Fox and Dreamworks Animation titles in the region.

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Teta, A Thousand Times... And One

English

A dark theater stage. At the center, a short flight of stairs and a woman at the top. A young man is giving her instructions on her posture, every movement and every gesture and most significantly, the way she should carry her imaginary violin.

Snapshot from Teta, Alf Marra by Mahmoud Kaabour

This is how I remember Mahmoud Kaabour. It was my first semester of Communication Arts at the Lebanese American University in Beirut. And outside of a few high school productions, this was the very first play I worked on. What a thrilling and exciting time! My first time in the theater, working on bringing a concept to life as part of the set construction crew. It was also when I met Milad Karkour, the beautiful and unforgettable soul and possibly the kindest, most dedicated person I have had the privilege of knowing. And of course Moalem Youssef, who has left an indelible mark in the hearts of all the students who passed by Irwin Hall and Gulbenkian Theater under his guidance and support. It was also on that stage that armed with a hammer and some nails, I met Maha Moussa, the accomplice of my university years and incontestably, the partner with whom I shared the LAU I know and made for myself. So it is no understatement when I say, my very first memory of theater at LAU and perhaps university in general is forever connected to Mahmoud Kaabour in some accidental, yet personally beautiful sort of way.

That is why this name brings back an overflow of emotions which I have to admit, prevented me from completing this post in a timely manner. But here I am now, not to take you on some walk down memory lane or talk about the past, but to introduce the genuine letter of love dedicated to the woman behind the man in the spotlight.

Mahmoud Kaabour may not be around to write it himself, but it is probably not a coincidence that fate would have his eldest grand-son, who out of all his descendants happens to also carry his name, speak for him. Like the ultimate extension of life. Passing on a name from one generation to the next, ensuring some sort of continuation, and ultimately some kind of immortality. After all in Lebanon, we do say "Those with offsprings never die".

But in the case of Mahmoud Kaabour Jr., this role seems to have been in the making since birth. Apparently, the young filmmaker shares common physical traits with his grand-father but also the same love for music and the violin. Is it another coincidence that his grand-mother would call him her "little husband" since his childhood years, winking at the resemblances he and his grand-father share, beyond a first name?

Teta, Alf Marra Production Still - Source

Maybe. Maybe not. What is certain is that he is the one who will tell the love story of this woman with the older Mahmoud. A story that transcends time and death. He is the one who will immortalize this woman's voice and words and gestures on film just like his grand-father immortalized his voice, words and gestures in music. Some of which, unknown to the public, were recorded in his own bedroom. It is from this most intimate sanctuary that his grand-son will finally extend these private compositions to the outside, to the world, to our ears and into our souls.

Teta, Alf Marra is a biography narrated informally through the words the Kaabour matriarch, a strong woman who certainly intimidates most with her candor and force. She does not hide or even tune down her emotions and thoughts for anyone. Not for the street vendors she commands from her balcony like the queen she truly is. Nor for her family or even for the sake of Eva, the future grand-daughter-in-law she meets for the first time.

Teta, Alf Marra is also the autobiography told through the tacit tale that transpires from what is spoken out loud, from every gesture and every silence. The Kaabour matriarch is also Teta Fatima, a touching and moving woman who will at one point or another drive even the most restrained to tears.

Teta, Alf Marra Production Still - Source

This film may be a documentary, but it is a romantic ode as well. An homage to Teta, a tribute to Mahmoud and a rebellion against Death.

Yes, people will undeniably end. But it is never The End. Mahmoud may be gone but Mahmoud is still here. Fatima may have the memories of Mahmoud and a past married life to keep her company but Eva has the presence of Mahmoud and the promise of a hopeful future to build and guard. And also to preserve and eternize the legacy they inherited. For the sake of Fatima and Mahmoud.

If you already have an appreciation for documentaries, this film is just for you. Because it is made with authenticity and respect for reality and the truth, which happen to be qualities that Teta Fatima embodies herself.

If you hate the genre, this film is just for you too. Because it is made by Mahmoud Kaabour, a filmmaker with a theater background, a graduate from the performing arts. Teta, Alf Marra brings to the screen the director's staging creativity, dramatic vision and even his very own acting skills.

All supported with the brilliant cinematography of Muriel Aboulrouss who managed to somehow paint the music through Patricia Heneine's flawless editing: a visual concert of images playing in harmony with Kaabour's violin.

Image Credit: R. Abouzeid - Source

Then why not gift yourself some beauty in a box? The DVD and Soundtrack are an absolute delight to the eyes and the ears.

And I was overjoyed at the sight of Being Osama in the bonus features! I was actually looking for the film and could not find it so this was a perfect surprise. Although produced almost a decade ago, it remains relevant to this day, even more than ever. There truly is a Before 9/11 era which seems to be long gone now, and we currently have to live in a Post 9/11 age, with all the political, social and economical consequences it forces on us in this part of the world but also on all Arabs worldwide.

So if you do not know him already, let Mahmoud Kaabour to your screen and into your home. Allow him to challenge your eyes, your ears, your mind and your heart. He will not disappoint.

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Sorry seems to be the hardest word…

English

Apologies my dear, faithful reader, I know you feel left out; and rightfully so. Yet, my disappearance has nothing to do with you. I hate to use clichés here, but truly: it is not you, it is me. Involuntarily, no doubt. Still, I take the blame. 

The truth of the matter is, I am incarcerated in Mommyland. It breaks my heart you have been losing sleep over my absence however some things cannot be helped. Perpetuity is indeed a long time, but thank God I do get a day out every once in a while, on probation of course. So here I am, at your service, for an hour or so. 

I could give you a double bill of rantings: one on Mia and one on Jad. I could talk bottles, milk, diapers and colics. Paracetamol, antibiotics, syrup and suppositories. I could throw in some sleep depravation somewhere. But I refuse to use this time nagging. 

What I will do instead is volunteer a few hints of what you can while you wait for my next day out ;)

Beirut's cultural scene is buzzing these days, so here's how you can enjoy interesting art events and why not, even do your share of good deeds. 

The line up compiled for your eyes only has something to please everyone: fine arts, performing arts, film screenings and even a little activism because well, there are some things worth nagging for over, and over, and over. 

So, currently running at the UNESCO Palace until April 15, an exhibition coming all the way from Switzerland by Lebanon-born painter Sayed Yammine.

Sayed Yammine UNESCO Expo (invitation)

All the details are available on Facebook, and for those who would like to get to know the artist a little more, here is an interview where he introduces his latest work and the subjects of his Beirut Exhibition:

Moving on to movie lovers now, with the screening of "Meet Me Halfway", the documentary produced by The Nawaya Network. Learn more about this awesome NGO and the people behind it on April 17 at the AUB. All the event details are available on Facebook.

And cherry on top: Cupcake Box will also be there, supporting this event! Yum!

May is also looking good so mark your calendars because on the 6th Maz Jobrani is returning to Beirut, with a cause! Tickets are on sale at Virgin Megastore and all proceeds will go to SANAD, a wonderful organization that provides care for terminally ill patients and their families in Lebanon.

Photo Credit: Maz Jobrani

And last but definitely not least, and also on May 6, The Lebanese Laïque Pride will take Beirut's streets by storm for the third consecutive year. Be there! The protest details are all available on Facebook.

Photo Credit: Lebanese Laique Pride

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The Nawaya Network

English

A couple of weeks ago, I received an invite to attend the pre-launch of a new Lebanese NGO: The Nawaya Network, an organization that aims at "empowering underprivileged youth by connecting them to educational, material, and financial resources to help them develop their talents, skills, and interests".

Unfortunately, it happened to be on March 8 which is when I was due to participate in a launch of another kind and indeed, I found myself at the Clemenceau Medical Center Maternity that very morning, giving birth to gorgeous baby Jad. 

Needless to say I was a little disappointed I missed the event but I am so glad to hear the pre-launch was very successful and helped raise about 9,000 US Dollars in one night thanks to the generosity of the 200 people who attended that special evening at the American University of Beirut. To date, The Nawaya Network has raised almost 12,000 US Dollars in just three weeks!

The volunteers are still working hard at fundraising so if you or anyone else you know is interested in supporting this cause, do share the following link where donations can be made online. The Nawaya Network is also recruiting volunteers and mentors before introducing their online platform and officially launching the NGO towards the end of the year so do not hesitate to spread the word.

Ideas, suggestions, contacts, or resources to support The Nawaya Network are also welcome as the organization is looking to connect with art, music, dance, and athletic institutes, as well as partner up with local NGOs. 


The organization also produced a documentary, Meet Me Halfway, which "follows the lives of four underprivileged youth in Lebanon while they struggle to pursue their passions and develop their strengths despite very limited resources".

If you have the time (and your connection allows for it), you can enjoy the documentary in its entirety on YouTube:

Screenings will be held around Lebanon and in London in a couple of weeks so if you would like to stay updated, sign up to The Nawaya Network Newsletter or follow the organization on Twitter and Facebook for more details.

Bookmarks:

• The Nawaya Network Official Website
• Like The Nawaya Network on Facebook
• Follow The Nawaya Network on Twitter
• Subscribe to The Nawaya Network channel on YouTube

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Updates

English

A couple of updates on the last few posts:

RE : First Phoenician port in Beirut - Premier port phénicien de Beyrouth du Ve s. av. JC

Link

The Lebanese online community has been upset over the discovery of the first Phoenician port in Mina El-Hosn under a construction site owned by Venus Real Estate Development in downtown Beirut. It appears this major historical finding cannot be saved. Like many of the ancient sites uncovered in that area, it will probably disappear under the wonderful face of modernity and "reconstruction".

A Facebooker has posted an updated photo of the port, with the bulldozers waiting right by it:

Source

RE : Nadine Labaki's "Where Do We Go Now?"
Link

Nadine Labaki's "WHERE DO WE GO NOW?" is officially the Biggest Arabic speaking film released in Lebanon  

by FRONT ROW FILMED ENTERTAINMENT on Saturday, November 12, 2011 at 8:17amSource 

BEIRUT. November 12, 2011. 
After 9 weeks occupying the # 1 position at the Lebanese Box Office and pulverizing blockbusters such as Johnny English, The Adventures of Tin Tin, The 3 Musketeers, Tower Heist, The Rum Diary, The Ides Of March among many others, Nadine Labaki's "WHERE DO WE GO NOW?" has now reached over 226,000 admissions finally dethroning the local hit "GHANNOUJET BAYYA" (208,657 admissions) and entering the TOP 4 ALL TIME LEBANESE BOX OFFICE HIT under James Cameron's "TITANIC" and "AVATAR", and Mel Gibson's "THE PASSION OF THE CHRIST". Labaki's Oscar hopeful is still running in Lebanese, Jordanian and Syrian theatres showing minor signs of drop and is now setting its sight on Mel Gibson's phenomenon. "WHERE DO WE GO NOW?" just opened in the UAE and Kuwait and on the 30th of November, the film will open in North African territories (Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia) as well as in Qatar, Bahrain and Oman.

Source

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Now we go ... to the movies

English

As you already know we've managed to squeeze an evening at the movies when hubby was here. I'm not going to get into the whole "Parents Vs. Movies" debate. It's a loosing battle. The purpose of this post is not to rant anyway (thank God!) but rather share one interesting and moving evening with all of you.

I couldn't ignore the nominations, awards and praises bestowed upon this piece and the artist behind it, which all speak for themselves, and loud enough might I add and which left me with the highest of expectations. 

To be honest I refrained from reading anything because I intended to experience the film with a fresh eye. And I'll grant you that same courtesy, don't worry. Which means I won't bore you with my critique of the movie. There's a plethora of very pertinent (I'm sure) reviews out there on the net. 

So why even write this post, you may ask?

Well first of all, to tell those two or three people who haven't yet watched "Where Do We Go Now?" to make the time. For a very simple reason: it is a simple, beautiful, sensual and genuine poem on Lebanon. 

If this film were a woman, it would be Nadine Labaki, simply. And just as a quick reminder for those who may not know or have forgotten, here's what the woman looks like. Convinced yet?

If not, let me just add the following...

"Where Do We Go Now?" tackles issues that are still relevant to our people, our nation and probably the entire Arab world today more than ever. 

But it is also and above all an ode to Humanity. Mankind. 

And probably the most flattering compliment to religions and faith. The true value and intent of religions and faith: Love. 

Nadine Labaki makes a commendable effort to shed light on human relationships, how easily ignorance and fear can turn the kindest and the closest of human beings into mortal enemies and most importantly how when we focus on the truth and tolerance, life wins. Because there is no escaping death. So the lesson undeniably remains life, the great measure it takes when faced with the end, and by extension, what we should do with it.

As with "Caramel", the cinematography is wonderful. Beauty is everywhere even in the simplest, poorest or sickest of places. Even in death. And the music, which becomes a character in its own right, is absolutely perfect. The poetry it brings is so intrinsic to the characters, the places and the story that it doesn't feel like an artistic addition. It is simply a part of life. A natural element of reality.

Everyone should take a glance at that reality. At beauty. And at love.

The promise was kept: I laughed. I cried. And days later, I find myself still immersed in that universe which is really only an innocent wish for a better world. The desire. The hope. The humble prayer of a people who have nothing else to lose and everything to win.

Your Bookmarks:

• Nadine Labaki on Wikipedia and IMDB
• Where Do We Go Now on Wikipedia and IMDB
• Caramel on Wikipedia and IMDB
• Nadine Labaki official website
• Nadine Labaki Social: Facebook, Twitter, YouTube

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Film Quotes

English

And I don't mean from the movies. 

I mean at the movies.

I have to start with a shocking observation: Dunes looks like a nursery. An overcrowded playground at best. Indoors. With echo. Lots and lots of echo. ow. oww. owwwwww.

It's always scary being surrounded by an army of 15 year olds. They are loud. They push. And worst of all, they giggle. All the time. Oh Lord, the giggling. It can scare the fiercest of us. 

At first I was shocked. Where did all these kids come from? I'm never surprised meeting them at Concorde, but I always remembered Dunes as being for "the grown ups". Then it hit me: I too was 15 when I first started to hang there! 

As you can imagine, the scariest reality bite (even more frightening than a 15 year old giggling) took over: They are not too young to be there, I AM FREAKING OLD. 

To be completely fair, the indoors pony rides might not have helped the whole situation. Yes, they have ponies indoors now. 

Rest assured, they are mechanical ponies and not intended for the cool 15 year olds. But it means that now, Dunes is also a fav' hang out for those 3 year olds and up! 

They even have a specialized one-stop-shop that creates activities, birthdays and whatnot just for them! I must mention the teddy bears horror show which they also provide. You start by searching three huge bins for your favorite "empty" shell of a teddy bear which looks, well, dead. Skinned to be precise. Then, a nice man will fill it up with... filling stuff. And here you go, your brand new resuscitated BFF. Stuffed. In front of you. Gives a whole new meaning to the words "stuffed toys". Enough to give those kids a lifetime of nightmares and provide a sustainable market for all those shrinks out there, for an entire century!

But I digress, so let's leave the youngest and their dead toys alone and go back to the subject of this post: Quotes, Or The Amazing Movie Theaters Things.

Story 1:

Unlike common practices in other countries, in Lebanon you have the opportunity to select the seats of your preference as you buy your tickets. It's not on a first come first seated basis and it can be nice considering how close the screen is to those first 10 rows! So we arrived 45 minutes early to purchase our tickets and ended up finding a full house (very happy to see that considering I am a fan of the movie, but that's for another post). Seeing as there was only two of us, we could manage to find a couple of seats on a decent row, somewhere in the middle of the theater. And luckily enough, they were the first two seats.

Then the waiting began. We killed our pop corn way before we made it to the movie, and just walked around the (really tiny) place watching little kids in cow boys hats, riding teeny weeny ponies on wheels. Cute, I must admit. I immediately jumped to imagining Mia on one of those. Priceless!

About 20 minutes before the show, we got in front of the theater door and decided to wait there so we could enter immediately as my pregnant back was starting to kill me. I was really itching to ask the ushers to let me in so I could rest but I refrained. After all, everybody had to wait and a few minutes weren't going to change the course of my world. And anyway, we all know no one's allowed in while the cleaning crew's at work.

Slowly, more people started to gather around us, and these days, I'm becoming a little claustrophobic, especially with all the winter germs and people coughing and sneezing. Make it a crowd of 15 year olds coughing and sneezing and you have the perfect recipe for a panic attack. 

But I kept my cool somehow (surprisingly). 

Then, super hunky boys dying to impress sexy girlfriends started to go in the theater, one after the next. And one after the next, they were asked to get out. 

But we weren't really surprised. We were actually waiting to see when the dance would start. Because it's a rule. It's absolutely not possible in this country to go to the movies and not find at least one or two smart asses trying to sneak in before the opening time.

About 5 minutes before the doors opened, the head of ushers came to me and said "You look exhausted. We have a special case here, Ali, take the lady to her seat". 

I was shocked. So kind and helpful! 

Of course, one of the 15 year old cool boys didn't like it and made a smart comment. I didn't hear what exactly but I know the usher looked at him and said "What? You too? Not comfortable enough? Do you also need to rest?" Needless to say he didn't impress his girlfriend much, trying to compete with an old pregnant lady!

Story 2:

Two women got in and the usher directed them to their seats. We didn't really notice where but we know they decided to ignore him and sit on the row right in front of ours:

Woman 1: Let's sit here. 

Woman 2: These are not our seats.

Woman 1: It's OK, we'll pretend we didn't know and if someone comes and requests these seats, we'll go back to ours .

Hmmm.... No comment.

The usher who came back was not as comment-free: 

Usher: "These are not your seats. 

Woman 1: We'll sit here for now. If someone comes and requests the seats, we'll move. 

Usher: Someone will come. 

Woman 1: Are you certain? 

Usher: Yes, someone will come. Return to your seats.

(No please, no thank you. Made my day!)

And as they walked to their assigned seats, 

Woman 1: Julie made the reservations. She chose those seats.

I was waiting for Julie to come and get an earful from that charming lady but it appears poor Julie is some kind of personal assistant or something because she never made it to the theater.

Those two sophisticated film lovers on the other hand, did make it to the seats... right next to ours! 

I could not believe my eyes. Why make all this fuss if it is to sit in the immediate next row?! I thought they were somewhere down the theater, stuck in front of the screen! Well, no.

Now brace yourself for what's coming next. 

Don't say I didn't warn you. 

Because it's going to hit you like a bomb. 

Wait for it. 

Here it comes:

Woman 1: Pfff. We're used to VIP seats in Dubai, now we have to settle for these?

Ok bitch! You no likey? You leave. God knows I could have made it without your stinky perfume that got me sneezing the second you passed in front of me!

Ahhh, the movies right before the actual movie: always the best shows ;)

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High Up In The Air...

English

This one goes to @RaniaSassine
I’m dedicating this post so she finally grabs a bite :)

Going on a hunger strike if @abouzeid does not post one of her great articles. You have 24hrs ma cocotte and I mean it!!!!!
7:22 PM Feb 18th

@abouzeid Tic Toc Tic Toc Tic....
about 11 hours ago

On a side note, and because I’m quoting Twitter; here’s an anecdote for you:

ONLY IN … MY FAMILY would we tweet, chat, email each other even if we’re sitting in the same room and could easily just… Talk. Yep, it’s happened before between hubby and I sitting alone in our living room, couch-potating, just surfing the web when suddenly he decides to send me an email to ask for a rather mundane thing like dinner or something. Yes. True story. Today, I tweeted that I had to get off Twitter and run to the supermarket because my fridge was empty as I hadn’t shopped for food since I came back from Lebanon . Well it was brought to my attention that I shared my plans with the whole Twittersphere before informing my family. My brother who was in the same room just bluntly asked: “Thank God for Twitter so we know what you’re up to. You’re going to the supermarket? Get me some hot dogs with you.” Note to self: Do not broadcast trips of any kind on the web; people will ask for favors (:P)

Well I’m not sure it’s a “great” article Rania, but a girl’s gotta eat and I’m starting to feel a little bit woozy myself just thinking of you fasting for so long! So there you go!

I watched Up In The Air. Love Georgie boy :)

The general storyline is really relevant to what’s happening today pretty much all around the globe, and the actual story is also pertinent to human nature. It’s got characters with a history and something to tell. The cast is excellent. The script is good; in many instances poignant, in others funny; but mostly real. The soundtrack is great. And best of all, it’s got a brilliant genuine ending; they didn’t Hollywood us or any shit like that.

Basically the movie makes you think about your priorities. What you want in life vs. what you need. What’s important vs. what’s valuable. Life. How you define it. How you live it. What it means to exist while knowing this existence is only so meaningful because it has an expiry date. What matters.

Success. Professional achievements. Goals.
Family.

And it got me thinking…

I really hate it when people say life is meaningless unless you get married, have children and finally get “this” purpose for being there. Existing is only valuable if you are living for your children.

And don’t get me started on the ridiculous assumption that your legacy is alive through their mere existence (ridiculous because obviously children grow up to become their own person and they don’t really care about being a legacy, they’d rather worry about accomplishing their own).

I’ve even heard flabbergasting statements (solemnly declared as “truth”) from educated people, women and men, affirming their (biological) children are their true achievement and by achievement they mean happiness. Adopting is not the same. And they almost always have the nerve to conclude with a patronizing “you’ll understand when you have your own kids”. This coming from people who obviously have never adopted anyone which of course makes them experts on the subject. Who better to judge adoption than those who have never experienced it?

I am married. I guess I’m on the “right track”.
(nauseating thoughts of conformity to be inserted here)

I am definitely not married because society says I should be in order to fulfill some happiness definition. Anyway, I think most girls get married for the wedding only and “looking so beautiful in their white dress”. I didn’t go through the whole wedding thing. Ditched the wedding, jumped right into the marriage; isn’t it what you’re getting stuck with after the party? Should have opted for the white dress though, would have made lovely photos.

Anyway, I did attend a wedding or two though and I simply can’t understand why people spend so much money on festivities that guests will most definitely criticize (they always find something to gossip about and don’t even have the decency to wait until they’re back home) and disgusting catering (even at the finest hotels/restaurants).

Why not just gather your family and close friends and celebrate your love (yes, that’s the purpose of this whole thing) with those (and only those) who truly care for you? But I digress.

So yes, I’m not big on conventionality.
Still married though (for different reasons).
Still childless too (Oh rage, Oh désespoir, my life is meaningless and my husband and I have no purpose to exist – off I go to look for a bridge and jump).

So what if I weren’t married?
What if I were to never have children?
Would it mean I’d be this miserable failure of a human being who couldn’t find her way?

I’ve got single friends.
They are outstanding individuals.
They have amazing careers.
And they’re brilliant women (and men, but I can't compare myself to single men, although they would make for a fascinating study in our region).

Their mothers still dream of marrying them (because they love them, truly) and they’re afraid their beloved daughters will grow old alone, childless and miserable. The worst.

Their fathers still worry about reputation and honor (because single women are always easy to point at).

And their friends might feel sorry for them (because it always makes you feel good when it seems others are more miserable than you).

I, for one, completely love these failures. And I admire these women for achieving so much when faced with that constant look of superiority or pity or whatever arrogance others think they have the right to display.

(I know that look all too well; I’m childless remember? After five years of marriage, needless to say I fall in the "failures" category)

Don’t get me wrong. I’m not claiming loneliness doesn’t exist or even that being alone isn’t sad sometimes.

Husbands. Children.
That’s all good.

But basically it all boils down to one thing: love.

To love. And to be loved.
That’s all that matters.
Who’s doing the loving is not really an issue.

I think that’s why these women are still successful and happy and unwilling to compromise and marry the first guy who comes to “save” them from their “failed single life”. Sure, society keeps trying to guilt them and sometimes even they doubt themselves.

But at the end of the day they know who they are.
They know who loves them. And they know who they love.
And that’s why their life has meaning.
That’s why they have succeeded.
And that’s why when/if they ever choose to get married and have children, they will do so not because society says they should; but… Well, for the right reasons.

Phew!
Yes, all that because of Up In The Air! Ah, inspiration! :P
And maybe also because of the godforsaken hour at which I’m writing this (it’s 4am Dubai time)

La « sourde et étrange colère » d'un Libanais face au film "Lebanon"

English ✮ Français

I don't like to copy & paste but this article is a must read. Unfortunately I don't have the time to translate it into English right now, but I hope my readers francophones will appreciate and hopefully I'll be able to share an English version of the text soon.

La « sourde et étrange colère » d'un Libanais face au film "Lebanon"

Par Walid Salem | éditeur | 04/02/2010 | 07H50

L'Israélien Samuel Maoz, 47 ans, a triomphé à la 66e Mostra de Venise avec un premier film autobiographique « écrit avec ses tripes », qui montre les horreurs de la guerre à travers le viseur d'un char [« Lebanon » sortimercredi sur les écrans français].

En septembre 2009, la nouvelle de l'AFP ajoute que le cinéaste s'est exclamé en recevant son prix des mains du président du jury, l'Américano-taïwanais Ang Lee :

« Merci pour ce bonheur. Je dédie ce prix aux milliers de personnes à travers le monde qui comme moi sont retournées de la guerre saines et sauves. Apparemment, elles vont bien, elles sont mariées, elles ont des enfants, mais à l'intérieur elles ont dû apprendre à vivre avec leur douleur ».

A quelques jours de sa sortie, Rue89 en fait la réclame depuis lundi et une bannière vue sur son site, posée en haut à droite, annonce le film avec des extraits d'éloges dithyrambiques… [Rue89 est partenaire de la sortie du film en France, ndlr].

La guerre vue par un soldat de vingt ans

Ce film autobiographique fait vivre le début de la première guerre du Liban en 1982, à travers la meurtrière avancée d'un tank israélien. Traumatisé par des combats où, jeune soldat de vingt ans, ce natif de Tel Aviv fut tireur dans un blindé, Maoz a mis 25 ans à en tirer ce film « puissant, » à « rebours de tout héroïsme », qui « montre la guerre avec une radicale nouveauté » nourrie des douloureux souvenirs de son réalisateur,

Ainsi, un nouvel hommage est rendu au cinéma israélien, après Valse avec Bachir, un autre film israélien qui a obtenu de nombreux prix dans le monde, dont le Golden Globe Award du meilleur film étranger et le César du meilleur film étranger en 2009, et était en compétition pour la Palme d'Or 2008 et l'Oscar du meilleur film en langue étrangère en 2009.

Un critique français avait rapporté que la salle, le public et le jury de Cannes, étaient fortement impressionnés par ce film où le jeune soldat et futur réalisateur du film, Ari Folman, fait son service militaire dans l'armée de son pays et vit le reste de sa vie avec une culpabilité freudienne sans se souvenir de rien. Plus aucun souvenir, alors qu'il était là, à quelques centaines de mètres des camps palestiniens, au moment des massacres de Sabra et Chatila.

Des Libanais ébahis

Du succès rencontré par le premier film à celui annoncé pour le deuxième, je me retrouve étrangement envahi de sentiments confus. Je ne pense pas être le seul, et beaucoup d'autres Libanais doivent en être tout aussi ébahis. Ce qui m'anime est difficile à décrire, en prenant soin d'éviter l'étalage des haines ordinaires et sans intérêt, j'ai une sourde et étrange colère face à ce que je ressens comme tribulations dans les valeurs culturelles.

Beaucoup plus tôt, il y a pratiquement 25 ans, un journaliste britannique « de renommée internationale, spécialiste du Proche-Orient » (RSF), Robert Fisk, dénoncait les massacres de Sabra et Chatila. Pour ses positions, il a été l'objet de nombreuses critiques et menaces dans le monde anglo-saxon, pour les critiques qu'il a exprimées à l'égard des politiques israélienne et américaine dans la région. Il disait pourtant que « le Moyen-Orient n'est pas un jeu de photos, c'est une tragédie, c'est du sang. » Il le prouve merveilleusement dans son ouvrage « Liban, nation martyr ».

Bernard Wallet, éditeur emblématique des éditions Verticales, en poste à Beyrouth pour les éditions Gallimard dans les années 1970-1980, évoque « ses amis [qui] préfèrent dédaigner les événements irréfragables dont il a été témoin effaré, plutôt que de renoncer à l'idée qu'ils s'en font » dans son livre « Paysage avec palmiers »… et depuis rien !

La parole au bourreau

Qu'est ce qui vaut alors que les uns soient écoutés et les autres à peine ? Qu'est ce qui donne au bourreau plus reconnaissance dans la reconstitution de l'histoire ? Qu'est ce qui fait que l'on soit admiratif devant un cinéaste qui « écrit avec les tripes » et que l'on ferme les yeux devant les victimes qui font son film quand elles ont les tripes à l'air ? Qui est ce qui donne à ceux qui produisent les carnages le droit à la poésie et l'admiration de la critique ? Est-ce la logique des choses que de perpétuer les massacres et d'en faire des films « impressionnants » ?

L'armée israélienne envahit le Liban plusieurs fois, en 1978, en 1982, provoquant à chaque fois plusieurs massacres. Elle lance deux offensives sanglantes en 1996 et en 2006. Elle occupe une bande frontalière au Sud Liban pendant plus de vingt ans, elle va jusqu'à placer des antennes du Ministère de l'intérieur israélien à Nabatiyé et Saïda, ainsi que de nombreux centres de détentions et d'interrogatoires, comme à Bent-Jbeil, le camp d'Ansar ou à la prison de Khiam.

En plus de la logistique fournie lors de massacre de Sabra et Chatila, elle participe directement à deux massacres autour de Beiteddine, et un dans les faubourgs de Hazmieh.

Le 18 avril 1996, au cours d'un bombardement, l'artillerie israélienne bombarde un camp de réfugiés des Nations Unies à Qana, prétextant une erreur de tir. Le bilan de ce massacre du camp est dramatique : 104 civils désarmés sont tués et plusieurs dizaines de blessés sont comptabilisés. Les casques bleus comptent aussi parmi les victimes.

Un film amateur tourné durant l'attaque par un soldat de l'ONU confirme que l'attaque israélienne semble délibérée et ne constitue en rien une « erreur de tir » comme le déclare alors le gouvernement israélien. Cette vidéo n'a pas été prise en compte dans l'enquête qui s'en suit. Interrogé sur l'effet du largage de la bombe sur Qana, le pilote répond avoir ressenti une petite secousse au niveau de l'appareil. A quand son film qui nous en dira plus !

Une thérapie de déculpabilisation

L'histoire et les souffrances de mon pays se racontent par ses agresseurs, pire encore, elles font office de thérapie de déculpabilisation. Le jour de la remise du Lion d'or, le film primé est dédié à tous ceux qui sont revenus sains et saufs, il ne rend aucunement hommage à ceux massacrés et tués sur place pendant les excursions sanglantes et barbares.

Le film semble « émouvant » pour ceux qui ne manifestaient, en leurs temps, que de l'indifférence aux faits réels qui en font l'histoire. Une consécration pour ceux qui ont semé des bombes à fragmentation, au phosphore et au napalm, et qui récoltent aujourd'hui de très hautes distinctions culturelles… en or.

Je n'ai pas vu ce film. Sans doute, je le verrai un jour. Je suis certain que je ne pourrai pas le voir avec les yeux du cinéphile que je suis, mes yeux ont vu beaucoup trop de choses dont il est justement question, je ne les ai pas oubliées et rien ne pourra venir les couvrir d'aucun voile, aussi culturel soit-il.

Je ne serai pas le bon spectateur car je porterai la mémoire des horreurs vécues et je ne verrai ces images autrement qu'en ramassis de cynisme. Le pardon par le cinéma, s'il en est, ne suffira jamais. Le cinéma retrouverait mieux ses lettres de noblesse en allant proposer ses moyens d'expression, au moins en alternative, aux milieux éternellement déshérités des victimes de ses guerres, mais comment faire ?

Valse avec Bachir avait annoncé la couleur de ce cynisme avec les dernières images réelles tournées par une équipe anglaise où le film s'arrête sur le cri de désespoir d'une femme palestinienne lancé à la caméra : Wayn el arab ? (Où sont les Arabes ? ). A cet instant, le doute même sur l'existence réelle des « Arabes » nous envahit et une partie de notre identité s'est subitement envolée dans une œuvre israélienne.

L'autre partie vient de s'ébranler dans cette deuxième œuvre de la même nationalité, sur le même sujet, comme un arrogant coupable qui revient sur le lieu du crime. Comble de la dépossession, elle s'intitule Lebanon.

2007-2010 © RUE89

"Sofia wants to be a poet..."

English

I just came across this short yet very nice interview with Francis Ford Coppola when he was in Beirut, Lebanon. What caught my eye was at the end, as the journalist inquired about Coppola's children.

It's always beautiful to view someone through their parents' eyes. There always is some sort of magic touch, a beauty; some sort of perfection. And I just loved what Francis Ford Coppola said about his daughter:

How big is your influence as a father, producer and director on your daughter (Sofia Coppola)?

Well, I have a very large lower lip that I was very embarrassed about, and she has the same lip... but on her it looks beautiful.

So that is one influence.

But I think my most proud influence on Sofia, and on my son Roman, is that they only want to make personal films.

You will not see Sofia get a job to do 'Twilight 3' or whatever - Sofia wants to be a poet.

How beautiful is that?

"Sofia wants to be a poet"... He is describing his filmmaker-daughter. And he sees her as a poet. Not just a filmmaker that creates images and sounds but that uses these images and sounds to make poetry. Which in other words (to me at least) means beauty.

Sure, parents always think that their kids are perfect. That they are unique, special. And that they are a gift to the world and humanity. Parents are always so proud of their offspring, it's sometimes silly, even laughable (not in Coppola's case though because his daughter has proved she deserves her accolades). Like their perfect child is some sort of personal success they achieved themselves.

It's unreal and yet, unmistakably, always a reality.

And it never fails to make me smile.

This naive perception which is so strong and deep that it becomes a truth to the beholder.

That's probably why I always fear failing. Or at the very least, I always fear my parents would find out about my failures.

They think it's pure love (and it probably is).
To the child it's pure burden.
But that is what love is sometimes. Sometimes the weight of love can be so heavy it feels like a burden. And we have to adjust and live with it, right?


Anyway, a father calling his daughter a poet can only put a smile on my face.

And so that's why I don't need to waste more time on psychoanalysis crap. I just need to share the words with you. And maybe get inspired, just a little bit, to create poetry in some way, not necessarily in writing but in some way, my own way... We'll see.

. S H A R E . T H I S . P ✮ S T .