Israeli Film “The Sea” Highlights Father-Son Bond Amid Conflict

Israeli film “The Sea” has emerged as the country’s submission for the Best International Feature category at the upcoming Academy Awards. Directed and written by Shai Carmeli Pollak, the film tells a compelling story about a determined 12-year-old boy from a Palestinian village in the occupied West Bank who illegally crosses into Israel to see the sea for the first time.

This largely Arabic-language film offers a deep exploration of the realities faced by those living under occupation. Through the eyes of its young protagonist, Khaled, played by Mohammed Ghazaoui, audiences witness the stark contrast between his life in a Palestinian village and the urban landscape of Tel Aviv. The film deftly navigates themes of borders, identity, and the complexities of coexistence in a divided land.

Khaled lives with his grandmother and siblings, as his father, Ribhi, portrayed by Khalifa Natour, works in Israel without a permit, often leaving the family to fend for themselves. The absence of his mother and the economic struggles of their village add layers to Khaled’s life, shaping his impulsive nature. His longing to join classmates on a school trip to the Mediterranean beach drives him to defy restrictions, leading to his perilous journey across the border.

Journey of Innocence and Danger

Khaled’s quest takes a dramatic turn when he is denied access to the school trip due to lack of a permit. Angry and determined, he follows a group of manual workers across the checkpoint, entering Israel without any plan, money, or knowledge of the language. As he navigates the bustling streets of Tel Aviv, his innocence becomes both a shield and a vulnerability.

Pollak’s direction captures the nuances of Khaled’s experiences, presenting a vivid depiction of the challenges he faces. His interactions with a young woman who teaches him key phrases in Hebrew highlight the language barrier and the need for connection. Meanwhile, Ribhi, upon learning of Khaled’s disappearance, embarks on a desperate search through the city, armed only with basic Hebrew and a desire to protect his son.

The film portrays the tension of their reunion in a strikingly unexpected manner, set against the backdrop of Tel Aviv’s lively café culture. This powerful moment resonates differently for various characters in the scene, reflecting the diverse perspectives of those living in the region.

A Collaborative Effort

“The Sea” is not just a tale of one family’s struggle; it represents a broader collaboration between Jewish and Palestinian filmmakers, a rare endeavor in the current climate. The film has won multiple awards at the annual Ophir Awards, including accolades for both Ghazaoui and Natour, underscoring the film’s impact and reception.

Despite its critical success, the film has faced backlash, particularly from Israel’s Minister of Culture, who expressed outrage over its portrayal of Israeli soldiers and threatened to withdraw funding from the awards ceremony. This controversy highlights the sensitive nature of narratives surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Producer Agbariya, known for his work with acclaimed Palestinian filmmakers, reinforces the film’s authenticity through personal connections, including family members appearing in the film. This commitment to genuine storytelling adds depth to the narrative, while also provoking thought on the everyday realities of those affected by the ongoing conflict.

“The Sea” stands out as a poignant exploration of the human condition amid political strife. It sheds light on the voices often overlooked in discussions about the region, making it an essential watch for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of life in Israel and Palestine today.