The Source

In a year when the Arabic Spring has dominated international headlines, »The Source« is a most welcome film. Examining women’s ability to gain a larger influence in the traditionally patriarchal Arabic societies when the tides are changing, »The Source« raises smart questions about this important issue. Surprisingly, he does so playfully and humorously, reminiscent of Aristophanes classic »Lysistrata«. The women of a small Moroccan village become tired of always having to fetch water from the well, while their men spend their days in leisure. As in the Greek play, they propose an ultimatum, stating that that no marital sex will occur until changes are made. The demands for equality are met with hostility from most of the men, and the conflict reveals much about underlying values and feelings. Director Radu Mihaileanu is a true cosmopolitan and handles this universal story in a refreshing and comical way; though he never abandons its darker aspects. Hopefully films like these may function as a starting point for reflections that extend well beyond a couple of hours of quality entertainment.

Premiere Status
Nordic Premiere: Orig. title
La source des femmes: Cast
Hiam Abbass, Hafsia Herzi, Leïla Bekhti, Zinedine Soualem, Saleh Bakri: Producer
Luc Besson, Denis Carot, Gaetan David, Pierre-Ange Le Pogam, André Logie, Marie Masmonteil: Script
Alain-Michel Blanc: Cinematography
Glynn Speeckaert: Music
Armand Amar: Spoken language
French/ Maroccan