O Caftan Azul

I really did want to like this Moroccan drama, and indeed, it is very beautifully and carefully executed, but I did find it just a bit too languid and nuanced for its own good, perhaps also finally just a little too sad and poignant, but it lingers in the mind, and like the precision snd skill of the kaftan maker, struggling with his sexuality and the conflicts of the society he is in, it does create a lasting effect. Not only a touching drama, but it highlights some very human themes and struggles.

Of course, a film from a Muslim country with themes on homosexuality and the struggles of individuals in a repressed society is a brave but necessary thing, and for that the makers should be congratulated. Beautifully crafted by all concerned.

I saw this movie as a part of the Gothenburg Film Festival this year, 2023.

A story about a man and his wife, and the new apprentice, in their sewing business. It's about craftsmanship and love, in so many ways. It's about leaning on each other and trusting one another.

For me this was a really beautiful and moving movie. So much love, caring and feelings between the beautiful characters. The story is moving and gives hope and understanding for what they all go thru - and cannot control. Really high quality acting and story telling that's just amazing to see and made us both laugh and cry. And the craftsmanship that is shown is very fascinating. Beautiful caftans, especially the blue one.

As a Belgian I feel proud to have an actrice as Lubna Azabal, one the best actrices in the international movie world. I will never forget the movie 'Incendies', for me still one of the best movies of this century, where she was also the leading actrice.

And this time again, Lubna and the other two leading actors were fantastic in their roles. The script is beautiful and very emotional. And the love and tenderness between the three very different characters is pure and very profound.

Le Bleu du Caftan puts all national feelings and international religions aside. It's a timeless story. Director Maryam Touzani has a very bright future ahead, what an achievement.

I fell in love with the tenderness and delicate sensuality of 'Le bleu du caftan'. Rarely does a movie maker so poetically depict the many facets of sincere love and sorrow. Surrounded by colourful fabrics and brilliant threads all viewers could admire the pure essence of touch, intimacy and devotion, but also the cutting pain of loss and grief.

Everyone in the movie hall was very quiet and in full admiration of this wonderful movie, and some had to reach for their handkerchiefs.

So, go to the cinema and be witness of a true and realistic masterpiece.

Where to begin? Defying all the taboos and presenting a queer love story in arabic cinema, a pure presentation of love at its best. Beautifully filmed and edited in a magnificent and elegant craft. Career defying performance by the film leads! Devastating and yet beautiful story/ fairytale if i dare say so.

Intimate, personal, small yet larger than life film where the vulnerability of its characters made me feel i was an intruder in their presence ears dropping on their story from behind the curtain. Feeling their emotions and sharing their experiences Thanks to the beautiful work of its director. I wish for the whole world to watch this film because it is exactly why I love cinema! This film have the power to change lives!

A sensitively drawn chamber piece for the three actors. Lubna Azabal especially delivers a finely crafted performance encompassing the breadth of human emotions. Wonderful.