In *Baab*, the story dives deep into the mind of Wahida, played by Shaimaa El Fadul. She is reeling from the loss of her twin sister, Nisma. Wahida also battles debilitating tinnitus. This condition pulls us right into her turmoil. To add to her struggles, she faces criticism from her mother, Fatma, portrayed by Huda Alghanem. After her divorce, Wahida and her children are back under Fatma’s roof. This setup adds layers to Wahida’s emotional challenges.
Fatma’s words resonate throughout the film: “A woman has nothing but the love of her children and, before her children, her husband.” This highlights the cultural pressures that women often face. The film explores these expectations, both reinforcing and challenging them in various scenes.
The title, *Baab*, means “door” in Arabic. A green door, symbolizing life and renewal in Islam, becomes a central focus. It’s locked and belongs to Nisma’s old room, which Fatma strictly forbids anyone to enter. This locked door sets the stage for a horror-like atmosphere. Soon, Wahida finds a way to unlock it, leading her to a cassette tape filled with haunting voices. This tape plunges her into a nightmarish exploration of her past.
While the film keeps some of its mysteries close to the chest, director Nayla Al Khaja skillfully builds the tension. Small details, like a pet parrot repeatedly saying “Nisma,” add to the eerie vibe of Wahida’s confined world. The line between reality and imagination blurs, and we become anchored in Wahida’s emotional journey regardless of what is real. The score by AR Rahman enhances this, with its haunting melodies reflecting Wahida’s profound grief.
Interestingly, Nayla Al Khaja is not only a skilled director but a trailblazer in the UAE, being the first female director and producer from the federation. Her work inspires others in a region where female voices in filmmaking are still emerging.
Recent statistics show that only about 20% of films worldwide are directed by women. As more female directors like Al Khaja emerge, there’s hope for a shift in this landscape, allowing diverse stories and perspectives to flourish in the film industry.
Overall, *Baab* is a gripping portrayal of personal struggle, societal expectations, and the haunting whispers of the past. It invites the audience to reflect on the complexities of grief, mental health, and cultural identity, establishing a poignant connection that lingers long after the credits roll.
