The Judgement (2023) by Marwan Mokbel

About movie: “The Judgement” is a 2023 drama film directed and written by Marwan Mokbel. The film follows Mo and his boyfriend Hisham, an Egyptian gay couple who return from the United States to Egypt for a family emergency. In Egypt’s homophobic environment, they must pretend to be just friends. However, their secret is discovered, and they become victims of perceived witchcraft as punishment for their homosexuality. This experience throws Mo into religious terror, forcing him to confront his unhealed past and internalized shame.

Plot summary: Mo and his boyfriend Hisham, an Egyptian gay couple living in the United States, return to Egypt due to a family emergency. Aware of the deeply homophobic environment in Egypt, they pretend to be just friends to ensure their safety. However, Mo is already anxious and uneasy about being back. Someone discovers their secret and leaves witchcraft at their door as a threat and a form of shame. Mo, who presents himself as a modern American atheist free from religious superstitions, is deeply affected by the witchcraft. His childhood terrors and deep-seated religious fears resurface, leading him to believe that their relationship is sinful. This horrific experience forces Mo to confront his long-feared internal conflict and ultimately leads him to fight back and seek liberation from his internalized shame.

Director’s Vision: Marwan Mokbel aimed to create a unique queer horror film set in Egypt that explores the volatile intersection of homophobia, superstition, and religious terror within a specific cultural context. The director likely intended to illuminate the perilous realities faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in environments where their identity is criminalized and socially condemned, and the profound psychological impact of both systemic prejudice and deeply ingrained cultural beliefs. By masterfully blending horror elements with a poignant love story between two Arab men, Mokbel likely sought to deliver a powerful and unsettling statement about the devastating consequences of religious extremism and the urgent need to dismantle internalized shame.

• The Pervasive and Insidious Nature of Homophobia: “The Judgement” unflinchingly depicts the oppressive atmosphere of homophobia in Egypt, where a same-sex couple is compelled to live under a veil of secrecy and constant fear. This theme meticulously explores not only the overt legal and social prohibitions but also the insidious psychological toll of living in an environment where one’s very existence is deemed unacceptable. The film chillingly illustrates how societal prejudice can manifest in myriad forms, ranging from subtle discrimination to the explicit threat of violence and the manipulative exploitation of cultural beliefs to inflict profound harm.

• The Destructive Power of Religious Terror and the Weaponization of Faith: The film chillingly exposes how religious doctrines can be distorted and wielded as instruments of terror to reinforce societal condemnation and persecution of homosexuality. Mo’s agonizing descent into religious fear starkly highlights the profound psychological damage inflicted by interpretations of faith that demonize LGBTQ+ individuals, fostering deep-seated internalized shame and a pervasive sense of inherent sinfulness. This theme critically examines the insidious ways in which religious dogma can be perverted to justify systemic discrimination and brutal violence against marginalized communities.

• The Entanglement of Superstition, Fear, and Cultural Control: The deeply ingrained belief in witchcraft within Egyptian culture serves as a potent and unsettling symbol of how fear of the unknown can be manipulated to exert social control and punish those who dare to transgress societal norms. Mo’s visceral terror in the face of the perceived witchcraft powerfully underscores the enduring influence of these cultural beliefs, even on individuals who outwardly embrace a more modern and rational worldview. The film chillingly suggests how the manipulation of fear and superstition can be a powerful tool for enforcing rigid social conformity.

• The Alienating Impact of Cultural Clash and the Arduous Search for Acceptance: The stark and jarring contrast between the relatively progressive environment of the United States and the deeply conservative and hostile atmosphere of Egypt generates a palpable cultural clash for Mo and Hisham. This theme poignantly explores the profound challenges faced by individuals belonging to marginalized communities who navigate vastly different cultural contexts with drastically varying levels of acceptance and tolerance. Mo’s agonizing internal struggle mirrors the broader experiences of countless individuals who seek refuge and greater freedom in more accepting nations, only to be confronted with the harsh and often brutal realities upon returning to their homeland.

• The Courageous Journey Towards Confronting Internalized Shame and Seeking Emancipatory Liberation: Despite the overwhelming grip of fear and the immense weight of societal pressures, Mo’s ultimate decision to confront his demons and fight back against the forces that seek to oppress him represents a profoundly courageous act of defiance and a transformative journey towards self-acceptance and liberation. This theme powerfully underscores the critical importance of challenging internalized shame and the potential for profound empowerment when individuals bravely confront the oppressive forces that attempt to define and control their lives. The film ultimately offers a glimmer of hope, suggesting that even in the face of seemingly insurmountable adversity, the possibility of self-discovery and emancipatory liberation remains within reach.

• An Exceptionally Novel and Bold Genre Fusion that Profoundly Amplifies Social Commentary: The truly innovative and daring blend of queer romance with the unsettling elements of horror, meticulously set against the rich and complex backdrop of Egyptian culture, culminates in a uniquely compelling and deeply impactful cinematic experience. This masterful fusion allows the film to resonate with audiences on multiple levels, utilizing the visceral power of horror to underscore the very real terrors of homophobia and religious intolerance, thereby potentially captivating a diverse audience drawn to both genre thrills and socially relevant narratives.

• Fearless and Unflinching Exploration of Highly Sensitive and Taboo Social and Cultural Issues: “The Judgement” exhibits remarkable bravery in its unflinching engagement with profoundly sensitive and often fiercely stigmatized topics, including homosexuality, religious extremism, and deeply entrenched cultural superstitions within the specific context of Egypt. This unwavering commitment to confronting difficult issues head-on is absolutely crucial for igniting meaningful dialogue, fostering critical reflection, and raising vital awareness about the often-dire challenges faced by marginalized communities worldwide.

• Significant Potential to Generate Crucial Discussion and Elevate Global Awareness: The film’s exceptionally unique and thought-provoking premise, coupled with its unflinching exploration of controversial themes pertaining to LGBTQ+ rights and religious freedom within a specific cultural framework, possesses a remarkable potential to generate significant and necessary discussion among diverse audiences, discerning critics, and dedicated activists across the globe. This crucial dialogue can play a vital role in fostering increased awareness, promoting deeper understanding, and ultimately inspiring meaningful action on these critical issues on an international scale.

• Authenticity, Nuance, and Profound Impact Through Meaningful Representation Behind and In Front of the Camera: The indispensable involvement of an Egyptian filmmaker, Marwan Mokbel, and a remarkably talented cast and crew with deep roots in the Middle Eastern region imbues the film with a critical layer of authenticity, invaluable nuance, and profound emotional resonance in its portrayal of Egyptian culture and the lived experiences of its characters. This genuine representation is absolutely essential for establishing the film’s credibility, ensuring that the sensitive and complex issues are handled with the utmost care and profound understanding, and ultimately maximizing the film’s overall impact on its audience.

Summary short: “The Judgement” is a gripping queer horror-drama where an Egyptian gay couple’s return to Egypt for a family emergency exposes them to homophobia and perceived witchcraft, forcing one to confront deep-seated religious fears and shame.

Awards and nominations: “The Judgement” has garnered two significant wins: the FilmOut Programming Award for Outstanding Artistic Achievement at the 2024 FilmOut San Diego for the talented Marwan Mokbel, and the prestigious Best Feature Film award in the Main Competition at the 2024 LGBT+ Film Festival Poland, also for Marwan Mokbel. Additionally, it received an Honorable Mention for Outstanding Courage in Filmmaking at the Tallgrass Film Festival in 2023, further highlighting its impactful storytelling.

• Eye for Film: Jennie Kermode of Eye for Film found the film “intriguing in its ideas but a little heavy-handed in the application.” While appreciating the exploration of internalized homophobia and the clash between religion and superstition, the review suggests the horror elements sometimes overshadowed the subtler ideas. The sensitive performances of the leads and a superb supporting turn are highlighted as saving graces.

• FilmInk: Lisa Nystrom of FilmInk notes that the film “begins as a study of self-acceptance… soon builds into psychological horror.” The review praises the sound design for enhancing the eerie atmosphere and the vibrant visuals of Lebanon (standing in for Egypt). However, it also mentions occasional clunky dialogue and heavy-handed metaphors, suggesting that the film’s intentions might have been “muddied” by trying to address too many elements equally.

Summary: Critics acknowledge the film’s interesting premise and its exploration of complex themes like internalized homophobia and the impact of cultural beliefs. However, some reviews suggest that the execution, particularly the blending of horror elements with the more nuanced social commentary, could have been more refined. The performances, especially the lead actors and the supporting actress, are generally praised.

Reviews about movie online (mention sites and what they are saying):

• IMDb: User reviews on IMDb are quite varied, with some praising it as a “masterpiece” and “one of a kind” for its blend of love story, culture, horror, and drama, highlighting the phenomenal acting and important story. Others found the “sinister/witchcraft part” unnecessary and felt it detracted from the movie. One reviewer appreciated the portrayal of superstition in Arab culture and the film’s stance against the persecution of gay individuals. Another user lauded the film as an “intense rollercoaster ride” with a positive message. The overall user rating on IMDb is 6.4/10.

• FilmInk: Lisa Nystrom’s review in FilmInk, while a professional critique, also reflects online sentiment by noting the effective sound design and visual aspects but pointing out potential weaknesses in subtlety and narrative cohesion.

Production: “The Judgement” is a compelling production by Perspectives Pictures (US), brought to life through filming in the diverse locations of Egypt, Lebanon, and the United States, which mirrors the characters’ journey and the contrasting cultural environments explored in the narrative.

Production companies (name, country):

Sales companies (name, country, sentence): World sales for “The Judgement” are expertly handled by OneTwoThree Media (US), based in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Release date on streaming: Information regarding a specific streaming release date for “The Judgement” was not readily available in the initial search results.

Why to recommend this movie:

• For a Truly Unique and Unforgettable Cinematic Experience that Bravely Blends Genres: This film offers a distinctive and powerful viewing experience by seamlessly merging the intensity of horror with the emotional depth of a queer love story, all set within a compelling Egyptian cultural context.

• If You Seek Films That Courageously Confront Important and Timely Social Issues: “The Judgement” fearlessly tackles critical themes such as homophobia, religious intolerance, and the damaging effects of cultural prejudice, making it an essential watch for those interested in socially conscious cinema.

• For Those Who Appreciate Authentic and Nuanced Representation of LGBTQ+ Experiences in Diverse Global Settings: With an Egyptian filmmaker at the helm and a predominantly Middle Eastern cast and crew, the film promises a genuine and insightful portrayal of the challenges and realities faced by gay individuals in Egypt.

• If You Enjoy Films That Push Boundaries, Spark Meaningful Dialogue, and Encourage Critical Reflection: The film’s bold thematic choices and its innovative approach to storytelling are certain to provoke thought, stimulate important conversations, and leave a lasting impression on viewers.

• If You Are a Devotee of Queer Cinema That Delves into Profound Social and Psychological Landscapes: “The Judgement” transcends a conventional love story, venturing into the complex and often harrowing realities of being LGBTQ+ in a society marked by prejudice and fear.

• If You Are a Keen Enthusiast of Horror Films That Offer More Than Just Jump Scares: The horror elements in this film are intricately woven with the characters’ emotional and psychological turmoil, promising a viewing experience that is both unsettling and deeply meaningful.

• If You Possess a Genuine Curiosity About Diverse Cultural Perspectives on LGBTQ+ Issues and the Role of Superstition in the Middle East: The film provides a rare and insightful glimpse into these specific cultural dynamics, offering perspectives and understandings that may be novel and enlightening for many viewers.

• If You Hold a Deep Appreciation for Independent Films That Embrace Risks and Showcase Original Storytelling: “The Judgement” stands out as an independent film that fearlessly confronts controversial subjects and masterfully blends genres to deliver a truly unique and unforgettable narrative.

What Movie Trend film is following: Queer Horror with Incisive Social Commentary. “The Judgement” firmly aligns with a compelling and increasingly prominent trend in contemporary cinema: queer horror films that utilize the genre’s inherent capacity for exploring fear and oppression to deliver powerful social and political commentary relevant to the LGBTQ+ community. This trend often focuses on themes of persecution, internalized shame, and the societal anxieties surrounding non-normative identities.

What Big Social Trend is following : Amplified Visibility of LGBTQ+ Narratives from Diverse Cultural Backgrounds and the Ongoing Global Struggle for LGBTQ+ Rights, Particularly in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Region. The film significantly contributes to the growing movement for increased representation of LGBTQ+ experiences on screen, while simultaneously shedding crucial light on the specific and often perilous challenges faced by queer individuals in countries with restrictive laws and deeply entrenched social stigma. It serves as a powerful reflection of the ongoing global struggle for LGBTQ+ rights, acceptance, and equality.

Final Verdict: “The Judgement” emerges as a remarkably bold, unique, and thought-provoking queer horror film that fearlessly confronts the sensitive and critically important issues of homophobia, religious terror, and the enduring influence of superstition within the specific cultural context of Egypt. Through its masterful blend of genres and its unwavering focus on the profound psychological impact of societal prejudice, this film is poised to be a compelling and potentially unsettling viewing experience for audiences who seek out LGBTQ+ stories, horror with substantial thematic depth, and films that bravely explore complex cultural and social landscapes.

Recommendations for filmmakers:

• Embrace the Power of Genre Fusion as a Vehicle for Profound Social Commentary

• Prioritize Authentic Representation and Deep Cultural Sensitivity in Storytelling

• Explore the Intricate Internal Struggles of Marginalized Characters with Empathy and Nuance

• Skillfully Utilize Genre Elements to Heighten the Emotional and Psychological Resonance of Social Issues

Recommendations for movie industry:

• Significantly Increase Funding, Production, and Distribution Support for Films Illuminating LGBTQ+ Experiences in Diverse Global Settings

• Recognize and Champion Genre Films That Effectively and Thoughtfully Tackle Relevant Social and Political Issues

• Actively Seek Out and Provide Robust Platforms for Filmmakers from Underrepresented Regions and Communities Worldwide

• Promote and大力 Support Films That Foster Meaningful Dialogue and Deeper Understanding Around Sensitive and Often Stigmatized Topics