Stories remain one of the most effective forms of communication. The best way to connect others to real-life situations that are incomprehensible is to tell a story. That story can break through barriers and attach audiences to people they may know nothing about in the real world.
Although the art of film may have limitations on its reach and actual impact, it remains the largest conduit of storytelling. The new movie from longtime writer-director Cherien Dabis taps into that ancient power with a beautiful, transcendent story that will surely impact audiences. All That’s Left of You is a historical exploration of the preservation of one’s humanity in the face of those who have lost it.
All That’s Left of You follows a Palestinian family living in the Occupied West Bank for the span of over 70 years. We follow multiple generations of this family as they grow and struggle to live under the brutal occupation of Israeli apartheid. The film directly immerses audiences in the life of an everyday family experiencing the common horrors, tragedies, and injustices encountered daily. The film takes its time with this family, getting to know them on a truly human level. From the simplicity of a dinner to the joys of a wedding to the commonplace medical struggles, the film deliberately immerses audiences not just in tragedies but also in the joys and camaraderie of a typical Palestinian family. There is a sincere immersion one can feel throughout the film’s runtime, which becomes crucial for the heavier aspects to resonate.
The layers of the film’s storytelling choices are astonishing. All That’s Left of You expertly uses an informative historical backdrop and a relatable family unit to tell a relevant, compelling story that takes its time with its elements. The themes of humanity, the mundaneness of evil, and the strength it takes to overcome it are broken down in an incredibly impressive manner.
Writer and director Cherien Dabis balances all these themes with a careful clarity that is amazing to witness. Each moment, journey, and tragedy has a profound purpose that drives the film forward and establishes a foundation of trust with the audience. That level of assurance opens the door for the film’s climax to be a more familiar misfortune instead of a mass calamity. This works perfectly with an engaging third act that becomes the film’s heart. Each layer is thoughtfully unravelled in an organic way, making the emotional experience all the more effective. From the deliberate pace to the small moments of joy and pain, the film’s immersive storytelling style is the perfect choice for its message.
All That’s Left of You is elevated by the breathtaking performances from its cast. Led incredibly by the movie’s director, herself, Dabis. The raw relatability of Dabis’s portrayal of Hanan is special. There is so much sincerity to her character that one can’t help but feel like you’ve met her before or that you know a Hanan in your life. A hardworking, loving, and personable mother who fights to keep her family together but always does so with patience and consideration.
We get to see her grow not just in age but in understanding; as a Palestinian, a mother, and a human being. The rest of the cast adds so much, notably Saleh Bakri, who stands out in his portrayal of Salim, the family’s father, whose shared trauma with his son forms a heartbreaking rift between them. Every character enhances the story with a lived-in performance that allows a natural accessibility to this family’s life. This creates a truly empathetic experience throughout the film.
All That’s Left of You is an emotional reflection of the daily difficulties of a Palestinian family. The film takes its time with the characters and setting to develop a natural relatability that makes each moment significant to the story’s thematic balance. Dabis creates an expansive, riveting exploration of generational trauma, purpose, legacy, and the acceptance of the loss of humanity. More importantly showcases the preservation of humanity within the Palestinian people. The heart of a people who chose to persevere in spite of seemingly insurmountable circumstances.
The grace and fortitude of Palestinians are at the forefront of the film. We get to see just how mind-blowing their strength truly is. There is a natural feel to the characters that makes the story all the more timely and real. The thematic breakdowns, along with the film’s touching story, create a powerful movie that is more relevant than ever. This is a film everyone should watch, not just for its important themes but also for its genuine beauty.