The Palestinian Film That’s Also Funny

About this video

• Video Title: The Palestinian Film That’s Also Funny
• Channel: Projectionist
• Speakers: [Speaker's name not available in transcript]
• Duration: 00:16:35

Overview

This video analyzes Elia Suleiman's film "The Time That Remains," discussing its unique blend of personal tragedy and Wes Anderson-style comedy. It explores how the director uses humor as a form of resistance against despair and oppression, reframing tragedy into comedy to reclaim power and dignity. The video breaks down the film's four-act structure, highlighting key events and themes related to Palestinian identity, state power, and the human condition.

Key takeaways

• Humor as Resistance: The film uses comedy to transform despair and tragedy into a form of resistance against oppression, allowing individuals to reclaim power and dignity.
• "Extending Time Vertically": This concept, central to the film, describes slowing down and savoring moments when one's time is limited, making the most of the time that remains rather than focusing on gaining more time.
• Stylistic Choices: The film employs a distinctive, meticulously crafted aesthetic reminiscent of Wes Anderson, making the storyteller's presence felt and encouraging viewer connection rather than pity or hatred.
• Four-Act Structure: The narrative unfolds across four time periods (1948, 1970, 1980, and present day), illustrating the ongoing struggles and experiences of a Palestinian family.
• Critique of Statehood: The film questions the nature of states and borders, emphasizing the importance of justice, equality, and individual human dignity over abstract state power.