Capernaum movie

 

Overview
Capernaum is a 2018 Lebanese drama film directed by Nadine Labaki. The story follows a 12-year-old boy named Zain El Hajj, played by Syrian refugee child actor Zain Al Rafeea, who lives in the slums of Beirut. The narrative unfolds in a flashback format, beginning with Zain serving a five-year prison sentence for stabbing someone. He decides to sue his parents for child neglect, stating “Because I was born” when asked why he wants to take legal action against them.

Plot Summary
The film explores Zain’s life before his imprisonment. He grows up in a chaotic household with his parents and at least seven younger siblings, where neglect and poverty are rampant. His parents are indifferent to their children’s well-being, engaging in illegal activities such as drug smuggling to make ends meet. Zain’s sister Sahar is sold into marriage at a young age, which prompts him to run away from home.

During his escape, Zain meets Rahil, an undocumented Ethiopian immigrant who works as a cleaner at an amusement park. She allows him to stay with her in exchange for babysitting her infant son, Yonas. However, when Rahil is arrested due to her expired documents, Zain is left alone to care for Yonas while navigating the dangers of street life.

As the story progresses, Zain faces numerous challenges that highlight the struggles of children living in poverty and the harsh realities of their existence. He eventually confronts his parents about their neglect and learns about the tragic fate of his sister Sahar. In a moment of desperation and anger towards his circumstances and family, he stabs Assad, the man who married Sahar.

The film culminates with Zain’s court case against his parents and raises poignant questions about parental responsibility and societal neglect towards children.

Conclusion
Capernaum is both a heart-wrenching tale of survival and an indictment of systemic failures that lead to child suffering. It emphasizes the need for compassion and accountability within society regarding vulnerable populations.

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