When I Saw You

Synopsis

When I Saw You (لما شفتك) is a poignant 2014 drama directed by Annemarie Jacir, featuring Mahmoud Asfa in a compelling role. Set against the backdrop of the 1967 Six-Day War aftermath, the film follows the story of Tarek, a young Palestinian boy who escapes to a refugee camp in Jordan with his mother. As they navigate the harsh realities of displacement and the quest for freedom, Tarek befriends a local activist, strengthening his resolve to reunite with his father and reclaim his homeland. The movie delicately weaves themes of hope, identity, and resilience, offering an intimate glimpse into the Palestinian refugee experience through the eyes of a child. Its blend of powerful storytelling and heartfelt performances resonates deeply, making it an evocative cinematic journey.

Cast

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  Mahmoud Asfa

  Tarek

• 

  Ruba Bilal

  Ghaydaa

• 

  Saleh Bakri

  Layth

• Anas Algaralleh

  Mr. Nasser

• Ali Elayan

  Abu Akram

• Ruba Shamshoum

  Zain

Reviews

When I Saw You received generally favorable reviews from critics and audiences alike. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a solid 83% approval rating, reflecting widespread appreciation for its heartfelt narrative and authentic portrayal of refugee life. Critics praised director Annemarie Jacir's sensitive storytelling and Mahmoud Asfa's convincing performance that brings emotional depth to Tarek's character. The film’s cinematography and evocative score also garnered positive remarks, enhancing the atmosphere of longing and resilience. Metacritic's score of 72/100 indicates generally favorable reviews, with several reviewers highlighting the film's ability to tackle complex historical and political themes through a personal lens. However, some critiques noted the film's pacing as occasionally slow and the narrative somewhat predictable. IMDb users gave the movie a 6.6/10 average rating, praising its emotional impact and cultural significance while some found it less engaging compared to mainstream dramas. Overall, When I Saw You is regarded as a meaningful and poignant film that offers a valuable perspective on displacement and human endurance.

See also

Interstellar

Forrest Gump

Joker

Titanic