Discovering ‘Leila And The Wolves’: An In-Depth Film Review That Captivates the Heart – Eye For Film

The upcoming 2025 US release of the restored version of Heiny Srour’s Leila And The Wolves feels especially relevant today as conflict continues to impact the Middle East. This film, which blends fiction with real historical footage, follows Leila (played by Nabila Zeitouni) as she journeys from London in 1975 to explore the struggles of women in Lebanon and Palestine. The story highlights issues like colonialism and patriarchy while challenging a man’s comment that “women had nothing to do with politics.”

Creating Leila And The Wolves was no easy task. Filmed during the chaos of the Lebanese Civil War, Srour takes risks as she connects stories from different times. One memorable scene features women staging a wedding to smuggle bullets away from oppressive British soldiers. Another shows a female freedom fighter facing both the threat of death and the sexism of those who should be supporting her.

The film does not shy away from addressing difficult subjects. It captures the tension between colonial powers and local realities. The struggles Leila faces—like a father taking his daughter out of school or a husband prioritizing weapons over medicine for a sick child—paint a vivid picture of gender inequality. Srour’s writing is direct, shedding light on women’s struggles throughout history.

One powerful image contrasts a group of women in black burkhas on a beach with men nearby enjoying the waves, highlighting the stark differences in their experiences. The use of archival footage from UNRWA adds depth, reminding viewers that the struggles depicted date back to events in 1948, 1967, and 1975, and still resonate today.

When Leila looks to the future, it echoes our recent past, showcasing an ongoing cycle of struggle. The conditions in refugee camps today are reminiscent of those portrayed in the film. As the fight for women’s rights continues, the stories and songs featured in Leila And The Wolves are passed down through generations, fostering resilience and resistance.

The film’s exploration of these themes reminds us that while history may repeat itself, the quest for justice and equality carries on. As journalist and activist Lina Attalah states, "Art can challenge societal norms and inspire change, and Srour’s film does just that."

For more information on the ongoing issues faced by women in conflict zones, visit UN Women.

Source link