Review of " Fever Dream"
Directed by the Quddus brothers, Fares and Sohaib, this film is one of the best works in Saudi and even Arab cinema. The balance between comedy and social drama was carefully calculated, and the directing was full of smart details-from scene construction to actor guidance.
However, the obvious issue was the excessive use of English in the dialogues. I understand that some words are better said in English sometimes, but here the usage was too much to the point it pulls you out of the film's atmosphere and makes you feel like the characters speak a language different from their environment.
The same messages could have been delivered naturally in colloquial Arabic, especially since the target audience is mostly local and Gulf viewers. The heavy English use made many viewers feel a linguistic alienation within the film itself.
One detail that bothered me was the depiction of alcohol in a water bottle, which was strange and illogical. If it had been shown in a beer bottle, it would have been easier for the audience to understand.
The acting was great, especially Najm in her first cinematic appearance, delivering a clear character with confidence and no affectation. Sohaib Quddus also gave a steady and balanced performance, especially in emotional scenes.
The directing featured complex shots and strong visual dialogue. The Quddus brothers' signature is clear, especially in portraying modern life in Jeddah and how the city transforms into a backdrop for each character's internal struggle. The lighting and decor were harmonious, and they succeeded in integrating social media into the story without it feeling forced.
The story reflects our era, addressing themes of fatherhood, superficial success, and the search for self in the digital age, cleverly without direct preaching.
The soundtrack was well done, enhancing the mood without overwhelming, especially in quiet scenes filled with internal tension.
But returning to the language issue, it did affect my experience as a viewer. Sometimes the dialogues seemed written for an external audience more than a local one, which contradicts the film's realistic nature.
Overall, Dreams of the Era is a mature and different cinematic experience, representing a real leap in Saudi cinema. If it had resolved the language issue and adjusted some odd details like the alcohol-in-a-water-bottle scene, it could have been one of the best Arab films of the decade. Despite this, it remains a work worth watching and proves the new generation of Saudi filmmakers can compete globally without losing their identity.
My final rating.8.
