Watch Leave To Remain

Leave To Remain (2013) is an emotionally charged coming-of-age drama that explores themes of love, identity, and immigration. Directed by BAFTA award-winning filmmaker Bruce Goodison, the film stars Meda Kidem and James Johnston as Omar and Afghan teenager Abdul, respectively. The film opens with Abdul arriving in London on the back of a lorry, seeking asylum in the UK. He is sent to a halfway house where he meets Omar, a charismatic and confident young man who has lived in the UK all his life. Despite their different backgrounds and personalities, the two boys quickly form a bond as they navigate their way through the complex and often daunting asylum system.

As Abdul awaits news of his asylum application, he struggles to come to terms with the trauma of his past, including the loss of his family and the dangers he faced on his journey to the UK. With the help of Omar and the other residents at the house, he begins to build a new life for himself, learning English and making connections in the local community.

However, as time passes and Abdul's case drags on, tensions begin to mount within the group. The residents' hopes and dreams are increasingly at odds with the harsh reality of the asylum system, and as they struggle to make sense of their uncertain futures, cracks begin to appear in their friendships.

Meanwhile, Omar is dealing with his own personal issues, including a difficult family life and a secretive relationship with his best friend Jamie. As his feelings for Jamie deepen, he is forced to confront the prejudices and expectations of the anti-immigrant society around him, and to make choices that will determine the course of his own life.

Despite the challenges they face, Abdul and Omar remain steadfast in their determination to find a better life in the UK. Their resilience and courage in the face of adversity is a testament to the human spirit, and a reminder of the struggles faced by millions of refugees and immigrants around the world.

Leave To Remain is a deeply moving and poignant film that shines a light on some of the most pressing issues of our time, including immigration, identity, and the search for belonging. With its powerful performances, evocative score, and deft handling of complex themes, it is a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll.