Watch Surf el Amal

Surf el Amal, also known as The Day I Lost My Shadow, is a powerful and captivating drama film that delves into the lives of ordinary people caught in the midst of war-torn Syria. Directed by Soudade Kaadan, the movie poignantly explores the resilience, hope, and determination of a mother searching for her son against a backdrop of chaos.

Set in Damascus in 2011, during the early days of the Syrian civil war, Surf el Amal intricately weaves together the stories of different characters whose lives intersect in unexpected ways. The film primarily focuses on the character of Sana (Sawsan Arsheed), a courageous single mother determined to protect her only son, Khalil (Ahmad Morhaf Al Ali), in this tumultuous and dangerous period.

As the escalating conflict engulfs the city, Sana becomes increasingly worried for Khalil's safety. In a heart-wrenching decision, she decides to send him to live with his grandmother in a safer area of the country—a place where airplanes don't fly over and the sound of explosions doesn't haunt their every moment. Sana's love for her son is palpable, and her desperation to shield him from the horrors of war drives her every action.

However, in the process of ensuring Khalil's safety, Sana inadvertently loses her son on the day when shadows disappear. This eerie and symbolic premise forms the crux of the film, as Sana embarks on a relentless and emotionally charged journey to find her lost child. With the help of a group of sympathetic strangers she encounters along the way, Sana navigates the war-ravaged landscape, battling her own fears and enduring unimaginable hardships.

Surf el Amal beautifully captures the desolation and despair that fills the streets of Damascus, showcasing the devastation that war brings upon everyday citizens. The film juxtaposes the destructive impact of conflict with poignant moments of humanity, highlighting the resilience and determination of those who refuse to let their spirit be extinguished.

Director Soudade Kaadan expertly crafts a visually stunning film, captured through breathtaking cinematography that captures the raw beauty of the Syrian landscape, even amidst the chaos. The eerie absence of shadows, symbolizing the loss of hope and stability, adds a haunting layer to the film, while also serving as a metaphor for the collective experience of the characters.

In addition to its compelling storyline, Surf el Amal features outstanding performances that add depth to the already immersive narrative. Sawsan Arsheed delivers a powerful and nuanced performance as Sana, effortlessly portraying the vulnerability, distress, and determination of a mother struggling against all odds. Her portrayal is both heartbreaking and inspiring, effectively conveying the immense weight of her character's journey.

The supporting cast also shines, with each actor bringing unique perspectives and experiences to their roles. From Khalil's resilience and innocence portrayed by Ahmad Morhaf Al Ali to the multi-faceted characters Sana encounters on her desperate quest, each performance translates the film's themes of survival, strength, and the enduring power of hope.

Surf el Amal is a profoundly moving and thought-provoking film that tells a universal story within the specific context of war-torn Syria. It highlights the human capacity for resilience, compassion, and love, even in the darkest of times. Soudade Kaadan's poignant direction, coupled with exceptional performances, makes this film a testament to the indomitable spirit of those caught in the crossfire and their unwavering pursuit of hope and a better future.

Surf el Amal is a 2013 sport movie with a runtime of 30 minutes.