Theeb

Jordanian writer-director Naji Abu Nowar's outstanding debut mixes a coming-of-age story with a boys' adventure tale, an interesting era, and an exotic locale. In this Oscar-nominee set in western Arabia during World War I, the title character (Jacir Eid) is a young Bedouin boy living with two older brothers, learning the family business of being pilgrim guides through the desert, and being taught the skills of manhood by the middle brother, Hussein (Hussein Salameh). One night, a British soldier (Jack Fox) and his Arab guide (Marji Audeh) arrive, asking Hussein to guide them along an old pilgrim route in a dangerous area that is rife with Bedouin bandits, Arab rebels, and Turkish mercenaries. While Theeb follows on his donkey, the Englishman's mission is gradually revealed: blowing up the Ottoman rail line. When an ambush leaves all but Theeb and one of the attackers dead, the two survivors must make an uneasy alliance in order to reach safety. Filmed in various Jordanian locales, including Wadi Rum (where David Lean shot Lawrence of Arabia), Theeb is a visually spectacular production that might take place in an unfamiliar setting but touches on universal themes. A fascinating and moving film, this is highly recommended. [Note: DVD/Blu-ray extras include audio commentary by director Naji Abu Nowar, and the bonus 2015 animated short film “Waves ‘98” by Ely Dagher (15 min.). Bottom line: a solid extras package for this fine Oscar nominee.] (F. Swietek)