The Alleys

From the opening scene, you feel that this is something different. This isn't another mindless piece of commercial television, this isn't another trend-driven cashgrab piece of entertainment, this isn't a surface-level pat-on-the-back piece of media, this is a film, one that has something to say.

Took me a while, but I finally got to see one of the most praised Jordanian films in recent years, one that deserves all its praise and some more. Bassel Ghandour writes and directs without a fear of judgement or disapproval, about characters in a city and area that are seldom rid of judgment and disapproval.

Perhaps what is most impressive here, is that Ghandour was able to say so much about the political, social, religious, and economical conditions of the country through the characters, not by lecturing the audience, but by constructing a thrilling and gripping dramatic narrative, that leaves one wondering, when will the cycle of violence and chaos ever stop? And when will honestly confront those who create such environments?

This film is a great example of the talent that yearns to reflect life in Amman and Jordan, talent that is present in every aspect here. The cinematography, lighting, set design, sound, almost every technical aspect sets a new standard for Jordanian cinema. All these aspects elevate the incredible screenplay, which is becomes even more realised with the captivating cast. There is no weak link here, everyone from the smallest roles to the leading ones were impressive, my personal favourites were Emad Azmi as Ali and Nadeem Rimawi as Tutu.

It has its faults of course, and a couple of personal gripes. Without any spoilers, there are a couple of actors that got a bit sidelined due to how the plot had to develop, their presence was missed. Also, some of the musical choices felt too detached from the overall atmosphere of certain scenes, which were supposed to be more intense.

It's undeniably dramatised, and it's how the narrative is purposefully constructed, it wishes to tell a story of a neighbourhood, and it succeeds in every way. I felt some influence from Scorsese's Mean Streets, and it also incorporates some other classic storytelling tropes such as Romeo and Juliet, but told in a local way. Whether you are with or against this film, you cannot deny its importance. Not only as a film for Jordanian cinema, but also for Arab cinema as a whole, it speaks to those who want to tell stories about their struggles and dreams, to not be silenced and conform. It provokes because it reminds them of the responsibilities that lead to such stories, stories we hear of on a daily basis.

There is a thematic antagonist that lurks in these alleys, its most disastrous perpetrator lives beyond the buildings built on buildings upon buildings, not present where the blood is shed, but where the riches are kept.

Engaging, atmospheric, enjoyable movie. A bit cringe as every lie, sin or intrigue gives rise to worse consequences.... Just enough over the top to bring out the humor and a bit of distance to mitigate some of the violence... But in the end I cared about the characters and thought it was wonderfully acted and directed with an ensemble cast.

Hanadi (Maisa Abd Elhadi) who plays the gangster's right hand woman rises to the occasion and is very powerful and riveting.

Would love to see her do more.

The multiple interwoven storylines were balanced artfully by director Bassel Ghandour.

I'm gonna go watch his Theeb, soon.

Impeccable performance with a great written script and character choices.

The story was captivating from start to finish. The scenes, camera angles, locations chosen to film are so close to reality it was truly a reflection of a Jordanian alley. From the narrow streets to the colloquial accent and the way the characters spoke, each with a specific personality that was very fitting to the role they played. Attention to detail to how each character dressed down to their makeup.

Hats off to the team working on this masterpiece! 👏🏼

Really looking forward to see more of this young rising talent (Basel's) work in the near future.

Enjoyed every minute of it. The characters, storyline and comedy remind me of an Arabic Pulp Fiction. It's great to see movies like this with realistic (not sugar coated) creativity coming out of the the Middle East.

It contains a bit of everything, and takes you through the streets of a country you rarely see in movies.

More power to the director on such a bold film. Looking forward to seeing more of what his creativity has to offer. It's also great to see the discussion this film has stirred up with two opposite point of views.

Definitely a must watch, great movie, love the direction and would love to see more Arabic directors take the same path.

Quite interesting if complicated storytelling. What's apparent is that this is a well-scripted film. The stories are intersecting and you are regaled by the outcomes of each storyline.

The characters are true to life which make them relatable. These are your characters that populate, well, alleys.

The actors are credible. Those portraying the major characters deliver no-nonsense performances like Ali, Abbas, Lena, Hamadi, Bahaa and Aseel.

Jordan cinema is producing quality pictures which should be a source of pride for Jordanian filmmakers and those involved in the movie industry there. The viewer looks forward to other films worth watching.