1982

I was honored to interview director Oualid Mouaness . I’ve always been a film buff and can’t remember the last time a film captured my attention and rendered me speechless. By far the most ethereal film worthy of the Best Film awards earned thus far.

1982 was filmed from the innocent eyes of 10-year-old children on their last day of school while sonic booms are heard and felt during the war in Beirut. Their schoolteachers were seen from the mature eyes while assuring the children and keeping them safe from harm. I could clearly see through the children’s and adult’s eyes and each actor became their character.

The common thread throughout Oualid’s film is unconditional love expressed in subtle behaviors of those on screen. His use of cinematic shots and quick cuts through the trees and the elusive expressions of first love as seen through Mohammad Dalli’s character Wissam’s are captivating as Nadine Labaki’s character, schoolteacher Yasmine’s grief and impending doom masked by her love and concern for the children in her class. Gia Madi’s character, Joanna is quietly understated as she tries to solve the mystery of who leaves love letters in her locker. The reflective quality of the swimming pool and the uncommon arrival of pigeons landing inside the school were beyond description as I found myself literally inside the film as an observer. Prepare yourself for a bigger-than-life ending. A must-see film on the big screen for all ages to embrace.

Film Review of Director Oualid Mouaness 1982 By Judy Wood