Salt of This Sea

Annemarie Jacir's beautiful film depicts the ordeal of the Palestinian people through the eyes of Palestinian-American woman who returns to Ramallah to trace her parents roots. It gives a rare glimpse of the daily ordeal where the people trapped in their own country. The film's focus is the young woman's self-discovery and empowerment that sends her on a journey where she finds love and little hope. Given the heavy topic, the film stays accessible and full of humor thanks to the actors and Jacir. While the film critizes Israel, it doesn't villainize it. Saleh Bakri (The Band's Visit) continues to impress and shows potential for international stardoom like Omar Sharif. YRCinema's coverage of the Cannes Film Festival.