Richly erotic and deeply moving, Maryam Touzani’s film takes us to urban Morocco and into the lives of three beautiful souls. Halim (Saleh Bakri) is a master tailor; Mina (Lubna Azabal) is his loyal wife; Youssef (Ayoub Missioui) is the man who slowly comes between them. It all looks innocent enough at first: Halim hires Youssef as his apprentice, seemingly impressed by the younger man’s skill and dedication. It soon becomes clear, however, that Halim hides a queer sexuality, and that he deeply desires his new employee.
Shot in subdued shadow and colour by Virginie Surdej, The Blue Caftan is work of palpable sensuality. Every act, from the peeling of tangerines to the gestures of human intimacy, registers like the touch of satin on skin: soft, smooth, deeply tender. Touzani’s direction is subtle and assured, and she creates human portraits that are as powerful in their physicality as they are relatable in their psychology. This is a loving, gently radiant film—a triumph of sympathetic imagination.
Talking Pictures is a monthly matinee series catering to the 55+ community. Patrons are encouraged to stay and chat about the movie and enjoy coffee and cookies on the house. Tickets are only $12, or two for $20.
Maryam Touzani
Lubna Azabal, Saleh Bakri, Ayoub Missioui
Morocco/France/
Belgium/Denmark
2022
In Arabic with English subtitles
FIPRESCI Prize, Cannes 2022 (Un Certain Regard)
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Credits
Producer
Nabil Ayouch
Screenwriter
Maryam Touzani, Nabil Ayouch
Cinematography
Virginie Surdej
Editor
Nicolas Rumpl
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