A mother and her teenage son embark on a road trip in “Hot Water,” the debut film by Ramzi Bashour. Layal, played by Lubna Alzabal, is a feisty Arabic professor and a single mom trying to adjust to life without cigarettes—now replaced by clementines. Early on, we see her clash with a lazy student, setting the tone for her fiery personality. Trouble arises when she learns her son Daniel, a 26-year-old actor Daniel Zolghadri, gets into a messy situation at school involving a hockey stick. The only way for him to stay in school is to live with his estranged father in California.
Their journey across the Midwest is filled with diner stops and calls to her family in Beirut, where Layal’s mother has had an accident. While the bond between mother and son is evident, the film lacks emotional tension. The cinematography by Alfonso Herrera Salcedo captures the beautiful landscapes, but the stakes feel low, making the story drag at times.
Though both actors deliver solid performances, the characters lack depth. A standout moment involves Dale Dickey, who offers wisdom during a mid-journey stop at hot springs, but the film soon slips back into a slow pace. There are hints of deeper character exploration; for instance, when Daniel practices pick-up lines in front of a mirror—a moment that could have added more layers to his character. However, once they meet his father, the story risks becoming repetitive.
The film has a good premise that feels underexplored, leaving viewers wanting more from the characters and their journey. Although it showcases the mother-son dynamic nicely, “Hot Water” struggles to fully engage its audience.
Interestingly, films exploring family dynamics have become increasingly popular, especially post-pandemic. A 2023 survey revealed that 65% of viewers prefer films that highlight personal relationships and emotional struggles, reflecting a societal craving for connection during isolating times. This trend shows that while films like “Hot Water” may not fully succeed, they tap into a collective desire for relatable storytelling.
For more insights on film trends, check out this article from Vulture.
