Watch Dear Son

Dear Son is a 2018 Tunisian drama film that tells the story of a man named Riadh (played by Mohamed Dhrif) who receives a letter from his son Sami, who left home four years earlier to join ISIS in Syria. In the letter, Sami reveals that he wants to come home and be pardoned for his actions. Shocked and dismayed by the news of his son's involvement with a terrorist organization, Riadh and his wife, Nazli (played by Mouna Mejri), make the difficult decision to go to Syria to retrieve their son and bring him back home.

Throughout the film, viewers are taken on an emotional journey as Riadh and Nazli navigate the complexities of the situation they find themselves in. As they travel through Syria, they encounter various obstacles, including corrupt officials, a lack of information about their son's whereabouts, and the constant threat of danger from both the Syrian military and ISIS forces. Along the way, they meet a young boy named Walid (played by Zakaria Ben Ayyed) who becomes a key figure in their mission to find their son.

The film explores themes of family, love, forgiveness, and redemption. It delves into the reasons why someone may become radicalized and join an extremist group, as well as the effects that this decision can have on their loved ones. Dear Son also paints a picture of life in war-torn Syria, showcasing the devastating impact that conflict can have on individuals and families alike.

Mohamed Dhrif delivers a nuanced and powerful performance as Riadh, a father grappling with the difficult decision of whether or not to forgive his son for his actions. Mouna Mejri shines as Nazli, a mother struggling to come to terms with the fact that her son has been involved with a terrorist organization. Zakaria Ben Ayyed turns in a standout performance as Walid, a young boy with a tragic past who becomes an ally to Riadh and Nazli as they search for their son.

The film is expertly crafted, with stunning cinematography that transports viewers into the heart of war-torn Syria. The screenplay, written by director Mohamed Ben Attia, is both sensitive and nuanced, never shying away from the difficult questions that the film raises. The pacing is measured and deliberate, allowing the audience to fully immerse themselves in the story and connect with the characters.

Dear Son was selected as the Tunisian entry for Best International Feature Film at the 92nd Academy Awards. While it ultimately did not receive a nomination, the film has garnered critical acclaim and has been praised for its powerful storytelling and exceptional performances.