A fighter’s journey: From the MMA cage to the Middle Eastern villa
A new chapter for Sarah
In the evocative film “Moon,” directed by Iraq-born Austrian filmmaker Kurdwin Ayub, we follow the journey of Sarah, a mixed martial arts fighter at the end of her competitive career. The film, which has garnered accolades including a special jury prize at the Locarno competition, explores themes of displacement, cultural clash, and personal transformation.
Sarah, portrayed by Florentina Holzinger, finds herself at a crossroads after a devastating defeat in the MMA cage. Once driven by the thrill of competition, she now grapples with a sense of purposelessness. Her attempts to find a new path lead her to a local gym, where her intense training style proves too much for the casual fitness enthusiasts.
An unexpected opportunity
Sarah’s life takes a dramatic turn when she receives a job offer from Abdul, a wealthy and enigmatic Arab businessman played by Omar Almajali. The offer promises a temporary escape from her current struggles, whisking her away to Jordan to train the daughters of the ultra-rich Al Farahadi family. This opportunity, however, comes with its own set of challenges and cultural shocks.
The Al Farahadi sisters
Upon arriving in Jordan, Sarah is introduced to the three Al Farahadi sisters: Nour (Andria Tayeh), Shaima (Nagham Abu Baker), and Fatima (Celina Antwan). These young women live in a grand but isolated villa on the outskirts of Amman, their lives confined by strict societal norms and constant surveillance. They rarely leave their home, except for guarded trips to the mall, and their days are filled with makeup, soap operas, and prayers.
Sarah’s initial attempts to connect with the sisters are met with resistance and apathy. The girls’ listlessness and lack of freedom starkly contrast with Sarah’s own experiences, highlighting the cultural and personal cages that bind them.
Unraveling the mystery
As Sarah delves deeper into her new environment, she begins to notice unsettling details and small brutalities that hint at a darker reality. Her curiosity leads her to question the sisters and the staff at her luxury hotel, gradually uncovering a more tragic and complex situation.
Cultural clashes and personal growth
The film skillfully navigates the cultural clashes and personal growth that Sarah experiences. Her interactions with the Al Farahadi sisters, particularly the makeup-obsessed Fatima, provide moments of both tension and unexpected humor. These relationships are central to the film’s exploration of freedom and confinement, both physical and metaphorical.
A visual and emotional journey
The cinematography by Klemens Hufnagl, known for his work on “Joy” and “Europa,” captures the stark contrasts between Austria and Jordan. The naturalistic camerawork keeps a tight focus on Sarah, emphasizing her sense of displacement and the visual differences between her familiar surroundings and the new, opulent yet restrictive world she finds herself in.
A powerful performance
Florentina Holzinger, in her first film role, delivers a powerful performance as Sarah. Known for her choreography and performance art, Holzinger embodies the physical strength and emotional vulnerability of a foreigner out of her depth. The Jordanian cast, particularly the sisters, bring a heartbreaking authenticity to their roles, adding depth to the film’s exploration of cultural and personal cages.
Final thoughts
“Moon” is a thought-provoking film that challenges viewers to consider the various forms of confinement that individuals face, whether imposed by society, culture, or personal circumstances. Kurdwin Ayub’s direction and the compelling performances of the cast create a rich, immersive experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
For those interested in exploring the film further, you can watch the trailer and find more information on the Moon page.
This article aims to provide a comprehensive and engaging overview of “Moon,” offering insights and reflections for cinema enthusiasts. By delving into the film’s themes, characters, and visual storytelling, we hope to enrich your understanding and appreciation of this unique cinematic journey.