Adopt Films has acquired all U.S. rights to “Omar,” the Palestinian territories’ official Oscar submission for foreign-language film.
“Omar,” written and directed by Palestinian director Hany Abu-Assad, won the Un Certain Regard Jury Prize at Cannes this year. Adopt plans a late winter U.S. release for “Omar,” which had its North American premiere at the Toronto Film Festival last month.
Abu-Assad’s 2005 film “Paradise Now” is the only Palestinian title to have received a best foreign language nomination. “Omar” is the sixth film submitted by the Palestinian territories to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences.
“Omar” centers on the emotional struggles of a young Palestinian baker whose loyalty to family and country are complicated by his love for a beautiful young student. Adam Bakri stars in the title role along with Leem Lubany, Waleed F. Zuaiter, Samer Bisharat and Eyad Hourani.
Pic was written, directed and co-produced by Abu-Assad and produced by Zuaiter and David Gerson.
Adopt’s Tim Grady and Jeff Lipsky negotiated the deal for U.S. rights with Brigitte Suarez of the Match Factory.
7. "such a layered portrayal of masculinity in contemporary Palestine" In response to Reply # 0
It was overtly political like Paradise Now, but with a bit more of humanity in it.
It's so well done from the acting, to pacing, to tension building, to world building.
It was a bit disjointed in terms of Omar's timeline, but I think that was on purpose. Since it dropped state side this year, I'll add it to my 2014 best of list.
All that said watching Nadia's scenes made me want the story from her perspective
10. "late on this; good recommendation, bwood." In response to Reply # 0
A very one-sided view of Israel-Palestine, although it's most effective as a story of the interpersonal effects that war has on a community (for both factions). Life becomes an either-or choice -- make the best attempt at normalcy under duress, or involve yourself and give up everything.
No matter how well you can navigate the maze of walls closing in around you, that choice catches up to everyone eventually. It's not until all is lost that a "difference" is made.
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