Sabah

I loved this movie! What a great portrayal of Arab-Canadians. Refreshing to see a change to negative stereotypes out there! The director spoke about how there are many different sides to the culture and religion and how she chose to show a lighter and more humane side. Thank god for that. As an Arab man, I appreciated seeing the culture in a different context; a more positive context. And it was so funny. I look forward to seeing it again and definitely recommend it to people. Why can't Canada make more films like this? It was a genuinely thoughtful film. An inspiring, uplifting tale that was very well supported by a brilliant cast (Arsinee Khanjian belly dances!! And she laughs and smiles and flirts. Definitely a first) Excellent directing.

Let's hope Hollywood doesn't steal our talented director away.

A beautiful, funny and entertaining story which brings back memories of another indie Canadian film a few years ago called DOUBLE HAPPINESS by Mina Shum. Sabah is the name and film title about a 40 year old single Muslim woman who meets and dates a non-Muslim man and tries to hide it from her domineering brother who's in charge of running the family. Sounds serious but it's a light hearted comedy which has some serious moments. Story is about family loyalty, romance and friendship. Great performances by the beautiful and one of Canada's most outstanding actresses, Arsinee Khanjian as Sabah and Shawn Doyle as her non-Muslim boyfriend, well-known series lead from the Canadian TV series "The Eleventh Hour". Overall, a wonderful film. Thumbs up and hope it's a Genie contender this year.

"Sabah" is a wonder, as not only was it a very enjoyable film but according to IMDb it was filmed in only 20 days! For young filmmakers, it's a great lesson on how to film a movie economically and quickly--and it's a nice film for those romantics out there.

Sabah is a 40 year-old Muslim woman. Her family is originally from Syria but they've lived in the Toronto area for many years. But, despite their living in a western culture, Sabah's family is holding firm to their old world customs. Sabah is not happy but she's resigned herself to this existence. However, one day, on a lark, she decides to go swimming--something adult women are not normally allowed to do (unless the pool is 100% segregated--women only). However, this tiny act of defiance turns out to eventually unleash Sabah's repressed feelings. So, when she meets a nice non-believer there and finds she likes him, she is, in essence playing with fire--as her family is bound to be furious. The two begin dating--but Sabah is sure to hide this from everyone--and her boyfriend is, not surprisingly, pretty miserable with this arrangement. What happens next? See this very nice film for yourself and see for yourself!

While the film is not without its flaws (the resolution comes about way too simply and perfectly), it's nice viewing--and very nice for couples who want to watch a so-called 'chick flick'. Plus, it addresses some interesting cultural difficulties in the process. Well worth watching.

I just came back from seeing a special screening of this film. And wow, what a charming little movie. I really appreciated the opportunity to sit back and be witness to another unfamiliar culture. I think it is an important story, and well told. A moving portrayal that illustrated many positive aspects of an often maligned culture. Sensitive definition of the many different conflicts that can occur in the life of an unmarried older woman. Humour made all the characters very real. The acting was excellent. Charming and lovely story and it was very nice to see Muslim culture portrayed on screen. Absolutely fantastic. The provocative subject matter was beautifully handled. I loved every minute. This is a winner, and lots of humour. And belly dancing! Wow.

i watched this film in Bahrain yesterday at the Regardes des femmes film festival run by the Alliance Francaise. it was great to see a film portraying an Arab family abroad and the love story between people from two cultures. although there were some shortcomings in the acting and delivery- as well as a few really dodgy scenes- i enjoyed this movie and laughed a lot...and i related so well to the experiences of the house and of the main character Sabah. I also loved the music and the theme tune and have been singing it all day. Overall, i was very happy to have had the opportunity to see this film and to support a young talented director who tells stories of a world that i cannot always see on the big screen.