Theeb

Overview

British-Jordanian filmmaker Naji Abu Nowar mightn't have intended to make a companion piece to one of the greatest films ever made. Yet in telling the story a child's struggle for survival as British forces clash with Ottoman troops during the First World War, that's exactly what he's done. Theeb explores the consequences of the global conflict for local Bedouin tribes and the change that comes with it from an insider's perspective, offering a fascinating counterpoint to Lawrence of Arabia in the process.

Played by first-timer Jacir Eid Al-Hwietat, the recently orphaned Theeb is our spirited escort through a landscape ravaged by violence. In 1916, Theeb is under the care of his older brother Hussein (Hussein Salameh Al-Sweilhiyeen), with the siblings trying to maintain their traditional way of living as pilgrim guides. One evening, English soldier Edward (Jack Fox) appears at their camp with his Arab chaperone Marji (Marji Audeh), asking for assistance with trekking to a well on the route to Mecca. Bedouin custom obliges them to help, sparking a journey across sand and rock, as well as a series of unlikely alliances in life-or-death situations, and forcing Theeb to cope with troubles that should be far beyond his years.

Nowar has called his debut movie a Bedouin western, a label that feels fitting given the prominence he gives the landscape. From its opening frames, Theeb draws viewers into a deserted world, both visually in its dusty images and thematically in its us-versus-them sentiments. With its irrepressible main figure leading the charge, however, the film doesn't just adhere to one genre. Seen through the eyes of a child just beginning to learn life's harsh realities, it's an energetic adventure and an insightful coming-of-age offering as well.

Such a subtle blend of elements requires nuanced performers to match — and while the stunningly shot scenery immediately attracts the eye, and the story proves both contemplative and engaging, neither would cause quite the same impact without the efforts of the feature's cast. While few people are seen on screen, the largely non-professional collection of actors can't be faulted. Indeed, as a showcase of complex and intimate portrayals from previously untapped talent, the film excels.

Theeb's achievements don't stop there. Shot entirely in Jordan, the feature is the first from the Arab nation to ever receive an Oscar nomination. That's quite the feat, though the movie deserves attention regardless of its awards success. There's a reason it's named after its resilient protagonist. Both Theeb the character and Theeb the film are as disarming as they are determined.