Israel’s “The Sea” Explores Father-Son Bond Amid Occupation

Israel’s international feature film submission, “The Sea,” directed by Shai Carmeli Pollak, tells a poignant father-son story set against the backdrop of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The film, primarily in Arabic, follows a determined 12-year-old boy, Khaled, who illegally crosses into Israel from his Palestinian village in the occupied West Bank to see the sea—a journey that becomes a metaphor for the struggles faced by many in the region.

Khaled, played by Mohammed Ghazaoui, lives in a challenging environment with his grandmother and siblings, while his father, Ribhi, portrayed by Khalifa Natour, works construction jobs in Israel. Ribhi’s lack of a permit means he often spends weeks away from home, leading to a precarious family dynamic. The absence of his mother adds to the burden of responsibility on Khaled, who, like many boys his age, finds himself drawn into trouble.

The film opens with Khaled eagerly anticipating a school trip to the Mediterranean, which would mark his first visit to the beach. Despite the sea being less than an hour away, it lies beyond the borders defined by the Israeli occupation. When a young soldier boards their bus at a checkpoint and identifies Khaled as lacking the necessary permit, he is forced to disembark, while his classmates continue their journey. Angered by this setback, Khaled clandestinely crosses into Israel with a group of laborers, driven solely by his desire to see the sea.

Through Khaled’s eyes, Pollak crafts a narrative that reveals the complexities of daily life under occupation. As the boy navigates the urban landscapes of Tel Aviv, he seeks assistance from Arabic speakers, showcasing the challenges faced by those who find themselves isolated by language and circumstance. One kind woman teaches him to ask, “Excuse me, where is the sea?” in Hebrew, highlighting both his innocence and the barriers he must overcome.

Meanwhile, Ribhi is frantic upon learning of Khaled’s disappearance. He leaves his job site, armed only with basic Hebrew skills, some money, and determination. Natour’s nuanced portrayal of Ribhi captures the anxiety of a father grappling with the risks that come from being in a country without legal status. Each phone call in Arabic raises suspicions, emphasizing the precariousness of their situation.

The film deftly balances moments of tension with the warmth of human connection. Khaled’s journey culminates in a powerful reunion with his father, though the circumstances are unexpected. The final scenes unfold in a Tel Aviv café, where the contrasting lives of locals and tourists intersect with Khaled and Ribhi’s plight. This setting serves as a commentary on the varying perceptions of the occupation, provoking empathy among some viewers while highlighting the disconnect experienced by others.

“The Sea” has garnered significant acclaim, winning five awards at the Ophir Awards, Israel’s most prestigious film event. The film’s unflinching portrayal of Israeli soldiers has drawn criticism from some quarters, including Israel’s Minister of Culture, who threatened to defund the awards ceremony. Despite this backlash, Pollak’s work resonates as a sincere exploration of the lives affected by the conflict, avoiding the pitfalls of appropriation or simplification.

The collaboration between Jewish and Palestinian filmmakers underscores a commitment to portraying shared humanity. Producer Agbariya, known for his work on prize-winning films by Palestinian directors, along with Pollak, brings a personal touch to the project, involving family members in supporting roles. This collective effort highlights the need for understanding and dialogue amid a landscape often defined by division.

Much like Tunisia’s Oscar submission, “The Voice of Hind Rajab,” “The Sea” sheds light on the contemporary experiences of Palestinians and Israelis. It powerfully illustrates how young voices, like Khaled’s, often remain unheard amid the political turmoil, reminding audiences of the personal stories that lie behind headlines and statistics. As “The Sea” continues its journey through international film circuits, it stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.