Eran Riklis, who directed and co-wrote with Suha Arraf (they also collaborated on The Syrian Bride), has made a compelling movie that takes its strength from the ground-level picture it gives of the human aspect of the problems in that part of the world.
Overview
Salma Zidane, a widow, lives simply from her grove of lemon trees in the West Bank's occupied territory. The Israeli defence minister and his wife move next door, forcing the Secret Service to order the trees' removal for security. The stoic Salma seeks assistance from the Palestinian Authority, Israeli army, and a young attorney, Ziad Daud, who takes the case. In this allegory, does David stand a chance against Goliath?
Director and cast
- Eran Riklis Director
- Hiam Abbass as Selma Zidane
- Tarik Kopty as Abu Hussam
- Ali Suliman as Ziad Daud
- Doron Tavory as Verteidigungsminister
- Rona Lipaz-Michael as Frau des Verteidigungsministers
- Amos Lavi as Commander Jacob
- Amnon Wolf as Leibowitz
- Danny Leshman as Private Itamar 'Quickie'
- Ayelette Robinson Cast
- Loai Nofi Cast
Critics on Rotten Tomatoes
Top critics, in their words
The two Israelis who take her side are female, which underscores the film's message: a little less machismo might save a lot more than trees.
The pungence of Lemon Tree is in the surreal moments that capture the pervasive unease in Gaza, and in the quiet strength of Abbass' performance.
This is a film about a problem, not a solution, and it's effectively upsetting.
The story, based on a real incident, may be simplistic, but that's the nature of fables. The direction is sure-handed, and the acting is good, particularly by the very appealing Abbass.
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