MEDITERRANEAN FEVER

2022 / 108 min / color

Waleed, in his forties, dreams of a writing career. The problem is that he spends most of his time in front of the television or staring at a blank page. The chronic depression he suffers from and the loud music played by Jalal, who lives in the same building, certainly do not help. A neighbourly conflict is brewing. Waleed’s initial irritation and impatience gradually turn into curiosity and, consequently, an unexpected friendship begins to sprout between the men. Set in the Israeli city of Haifa, this dramedy deals with masculinity and mental illness with a great deal of warmth and black humour. It also takes place in a polarised place, full of political tensions between Israelis and Palestinians, well reflected in the title of Maha Haj’s film. Among the strengths of Mediterranean Fever are the moving performances of Amer Hlehel and Ashraf Farah. Awarded for its screenplay at the recent Cannes Film Festival (Un Certain Regard competition), it was a Palestinian candidate for an Oscar, making Maha Haj a prominent observer of Middle Eastern reality.

• Cannes IFF – Screenplay Prize (Un Certain Regard)
• Hong Kong IFF – Golden Firebird Award