By Isabella Yepez
The film West Beirut provides an emotional journey delving into the historical relevance and societal issues of the Lebanese Civil War while illustrating a story that underscores humanity in times of conflict. Director Ziad Doueriri transports the audience into the streets of a city ripped apart by violence on an emotional level. Themes of chaos and fear are painted within elements in the opening scene, showing the aftermath of a horrific bus assault. Soldiers and snipers surround the streets, standing guard against the perpetual fear and tension that pervade daily life.
“West Beirut” primarily addresses the several effects of the Lebanese Civil War on people and communities. Specifically, in the characters Tark, Omar, and May, their identities have to revolve around the constant reminder of the city’s hardship, yet despite the constant challenge, they search for happiness. Themes of love, resiliency, and human connection are at the core of the film, primarily in Tarek and May’s blossoming romance, transcending sectarian barriers and providing a glimpse of a hopeful future for peace. The power of love is a notable theme in the film as Tarek overcomes the established societal divisions and the biases of his friend Omar as he pursues May despite her Christian beliefs. The film’s intricate features are visually appealing, with symbolism that strengthens the narrative. In Tarek and May’s secret encounters, the film’s imagery encourages the audience to fully immerse themselves in their world.
Moments like Omar consoling Tarek and assuring him that safety is universal, despite religion, highlight the film’s powerful theme of unity amidst division.
The scene where Tarek, Omar, and May are walking around their war-torn city, searching for moments of normalcy, is an exemplary moment of their daily environment. The sounds of gunfire and explosions in the distance as they wander through the streets littered with debris fill the streets at every turn. The trio finds comfort in each other’s presence despite the destruction, and their moments of laughter together contrast the devastating reality of destruction that surrounds them.
The complex relationship between characters who are each in search of their own identity and personal challenges. This is prominent within Tarek’s friendship, and his constant optimism gives hope, and his interactions with Omar bring to light the underlying tension that boils underneath sectarian boundaries. The divide of Beirut into East and West signifies the intricacies of identification and mining relationships, while conflict is prevalent, reflecting a metaphor for a divided society.
The lasting impression the film West Beirut induces in the viewer is an inspiring contemplation on the spirit of humanity’s resiliency and brings awareness to conflict. The timeless message of optimism and unity in the face of war is reinstated with a fresh perspective from the director through the depiction of universal themes of love and friendship.
“West Beirut” pushes past the boundaries of ideology, race, and religion, serving as a reminder that, in the end, what ties society together is common humanity. Using empathy, comprehension, and group efforts, viewers are left with a reflection of how conflict can pave the way for peace and reconciliation.
Through an Arabic Lens: the Intersection of Film and Culture 