I watched Incendies

Nawal Marwan, a Middle Eastern Canadian woman, passes away suddenly.
Her surviving twins, Jeanne and Simon, head to Lebanon
following their mother's dying wish to deliver letters
to a hidden brother and father they never knew existed...
While the film is set against the heavy historical backdrop
of religious and political conflicts in the Middle East,
it does not stop at merely showing the horrors of war.
Director Denis Villeneuve meticulously illuminates how
massive historical tragedies leave deep scars on an
individual's life and family history.
The mother is not portrayed merely as a victim or
a symbol of maternal love.
She is depicted as a human being who made difficult decisions
to survive in turbulent times and endured the resulting
tragedies with her whole being.
As the children get closer to the truth, they face
complex emotions that go beyond resentment or
doubt toward their mother.
The structure, where the seemingly broken link between
parent and child is reconnected through the truth,
makes the relationships between the characters even more multi-dimensional.
It proves that while the world destroys itself through
constant misunderstanding, conflict, and revenge, the only
key to breaking that tragic cycle is forgiveness and love.
The process of facing the truth is excruciatingly painful
and harsh, but in the end, it leaves behind a human
decision to embrace one another.
It is impressive to see how they ultimately do not give up
on human dignity and love even in desperate situations.
It is a work that leaves a deep, lasting impression.
I highly recommend it to anyone who appreciates excellent
direction that maintains tension throughout while handling
heavy themes, as well as profound messages.
4/5