Review: Out in the Dark— Directed by Michael Mayer

Given the circumstances surrounding Israel-Palestine relations, I thought it was worth revisiting a 2012 film that explores the complicated issue in a fictional narrative. Michael Mayer's 2012 film was nominated for 23 international awards, 19 of which it won. The film follows the love story between two men who are caught in the middle of intense conflict. Nimr Mashrawi (Nicholas Jacob) is a student from Palestine studying in Israel. His family back at home doesn't know about his secret-- his attraction to the same sex. Roy Scheffer (Michael Aloni) is an up-and-coming Israeli lawyer with a full career ahead of him. Both of them would rather be left to enjoy their time together. The political tensions impede on this though. When Nimr witnesses the death of a friend, authorities use his status to force him into helping their investigation. As things begin to unwind, the two men find themselves at the mercy of the systems, traditions, each other.

My first time watching this film was back in 2015. I remember being moved by the acting and the intensity of the plot development. You go into the film, knowing from the beginning that this is not going to be a smooth ride for the two lovers. As their love blooms, the reality of their circumstances never ceases to make itself present. It is in their love for one another that the two men find refuge. Yet it also leads back to the question...how powerful is love, truly? Nicholas Jacob and Michael Aloni are not only easy on the eyes, they deliver performances that keep audiences enthralled. Jacob does an amazing job portraying a young Palestinian trying to come into his own whilst embracing the parts of himself that the world would rather shun.

The film serves as a stark reminder that the winners of these conflicts are never ordinary people. Intersectional analysis takes the center stage as Mashrawi tries to find a place in a world that despises him for his nationality as well as his sexual orientation. Yet still the audience sees a man who wants to make something of himself, the life he has been dealt, and a new way forward. All of which are put in jeopardy by the real world surrounding him.

There are moments of intense violence in this film. There are also beautiful, tender moments between two men. Those moments include romantic as well as explicit, sensual encounters. This film is best viewed by adults. It is worth the watch. In a world where our public discourse is torn by hateful rhetoric, this film brings enlightenment and love.

You can watch a trailer for the film here. The film itself can be viewed on Amazon Prime, Tubi, or Apple TV.