شيخة ا
Didn't like the slow pace and the ending was kinda predictable.
Rated 1/5 Stars •
Rated 1 out of 5 stars
01/27/25
Full Review
Abdullah Yahya A
Hobal is yet another stunning Saudi film, with fantastic performances and a gripping story, though it could benefit from a tighter screenplay to address some rough edges in the plot, timeline inconsistencies, and pacing issues. At a runtime of 1 hour and 52 minutes, there isn’t much excess to cut. Even when the pace lags slightly, the breathtaking visuals compensate, maintaining the film’s momentum.
Director Abdulaziz Alshlahei showcases a keen eye and assured hand, reinforcing his reputation as a masterful filmmaker. While I found some flaws in Mufarrij Almafilm's screenplay, there’s no denying that the story is fully formed and engaging. It simply needed more refinement through editing. Their previous collaboration, The Tambour of Retribution, was also a well-made film, though it suffered from similar script issues.
The music score by Suad Bushnaq is hauntingly beautiful—subtle yet evocative, never overpowering the scenes. Mahmoud Youssef's cinematography is equally captivating, portraying the desert as vast, serene, and exquisite, both day and night. His work almost distracts from the harsh, barren existence of the family and their isolation under a patriarch whose stubbornness and misguided pride threaten to tear them apart.
The performances, however, are the film’s crowning achievement. Mila Al Zahrani delivers a tour de force performance as Sarra, the desperate mother fighting to save her child from impending doom. Her portrayal is layered—she is cunning, seductive, and filled with contempt for her weak, cowardly husband Shanar, played brilliantly by Meshal Al-Mutairi. One early scene lingers on Sarra’s veiled face, where her eyes alone convey a range of emotions: joy, surprise, rage, and sorrow. It’s a testament to her skill as an actress and sets the tone for her character’s dynamic with Shanar throughout the film.
Ibrahim Al-Hasawi gives a solid performance as Liyam, the family patriarch, though his role diminishes in the second half. Among the younger cast, Amal Sami impresses as Rifa, while Hamad Farhan as Assaf truly stands out as the emotional core of the story.
Overall, Hobal is a significant step forward for Saudi cinema. While it may not yet be the earth-shattering masterpiece I’m waiting for, it’s a compelling and beautifully crafted film that highlights the immense potential of local filmmakers.
Rated 4/5 Stars •
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
01/26/25
Full Review
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