Watch Grandma, a Thousand Times

Grandma, a Thousand Times is a beautifully crafted documentary film that offers an intimate portrait of a family in Lebanon and the powerful role that their grandmother plays in their lives. Directed by Mahmoud Kaabour, the film is a poignant and touching exploration of family, tradition, and the passing of time. At the heart of the film is Fatima el Ghoul, the grandmother who serves as the linchpin of the family. With a sharp wit and a keen sense of humor, Fatima regales her family with stories of the past, weaving a rich tapestry of history that spans across generations. Through her eyes, we see the changing landscape of Lebanon, from the rural life of her youth to the bustling highways and skyscrapers of the present day.

The film is shot in a unique and innovative way, with Kaabour using a combination of archival footage, home movies, and cinematic reenactments to tell the story of the family. The result is a film that feels both intimate and grand, capturing the scope of one family's history while also offering a glimpse into the larger forces that have shaped the country of Lebanon as a whole.

Throughout the film, we see the profound impact that Fatima has had on her family. From her grandchildren to her great-grandchildren, all of whom look up to her with a mix of reverence and affection, she is a constant source of wisdom and guidance. We also see how her presence has shaped the family's values and traditions, from the way they celebrate holidays to the foods they eat.

As the film progresses, we see how the passing of time has taken a toll on Fatima's health. Though she remains feisty and sharp-tongued, her mobility is limited, and she struggles with increasing health problems. The family rallies around her, doing their best to make her comfortable and care for her in her final years.

Despite the sadness that permeates the later parts of the film, Grandma, a Thousand Times is ultimately a celebration of life and the enduring bonds that tie us together as families. Through its touching and heartfelt storytelling, it offers a window into a world that is both deeply personal and universal, reminding us of the importance of our own families and the legacies we leave behind.

In addition to its rich and engaging storytelling, the film is also a visual feast, with stunning visuals and a richly textured score that perfectly complement the story being told. Whether profiling the beauty of the Lebanese countryside or the bustling energy of the city, the film captures the essence of a country and a culture that is at once ancient and modern.

In conclusion, Grandma, a Thousand Times is a powerful and moving documentary that offers a rare glimpse into the lives of a family in Lebanon. With its innovative storytelling, richly drawn characters, and stunning visuals, it is a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll. While it may not be a well-known title in the world of cinema, it is a hidden gem that deserves to be seen by anyone who values intimate and personal storytelling.

Grandma, a Thousand Times is a 2010 documentary with a runtime of 48 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.6 and a MetaScore of 77.