Exploring Relationships in “The Vile”
Polygamy used to be common in Abu Dhabi but has greatly declined, showing up in only about 10% of households today. What was once seen as a form of protection for women is now heavily criticized by many advocates for women’s rights. Although some individuals find it works for them, there’s a strong push against viewing it as an obligation.
Filmmaker Majid Al Ansari taps into this debate in his horror film, “The Vile.” He draws inspiration from interviews with women who have lived through the complexities of having a second wife in the house. The film digs deeper, exploring themes of relationship breakdowns and the abuse of power.
The story revolves around Amani (played by Bdoor Mohammed), who is shattered when her husband, Khaled (Jasem Alkharraz), unexpectedly brings home a younger wife, Zahra (Sarah Taibah). Amani’s initial instinct is denial—she tries to shut the door on this new reality. But Zahra’s presence is undeniable; she’s pregnant with Khaled’s child, making Amani and her teenage daughter, Noor (Iman Tarik), face a tough reality.
Soon, the family begins to feel an unsettling shift, highlighted by the death of their pet canary. It’s a subtle but powerful metaphor for the dark changes infiltrating their once-happy home.
Al Ansari does a brilliant job of showcasing the love that once flourished within Amani’s family. Through family photos and cherished memories, the audience sees their bond. Amani finds a bouquet of flowers on the kitchen table—a peace offering from Zahra. But amid the chaos, those flowers become a reminder of her struggle; they end up being thrown away as she faces the painful reality of her situation. In a moment of frustration, she accidentally breaks a mug that holds remnants of her past, getting injured in the process. Zahra’s help becomes essential, blurring the lines between ally and enemy.
Zahra, aptly named “flower,” begins to root herself in the household. As Amani grapples with her crumbling world, Zahra grows increasingly confident. Amani’s intense pressure drives a wedge between her and Noor, who faces bullying at school due to their family dynamics. Zahra sees this as an opportunity to bond with Noor. Their unexpected connection evokes caution, resembling moments from thrillers like Fatal Attraction, hinting at deeper tensions.
The plot takes a dramatic turn when Amani discovers startling truths about Zahra. Confusion reigns as trust issues seep into every interaction. Khaled, initially powerful, finds himself sidelined in the unfolding drama as Amani starts to reclaim her autonomy. The stakes rise—will she save her family or herself?
“The Vile” is rich with meaning. Bdoor Mohammed’s performance captivates viewers, leaving them empathetic yet uncertain. As Amani’s turmoil contrasts with Zahra’s composure, the film challenges viewers to reflect on true sources of conflict.
This film stands out at events like Fantastic Fest, urging audiences to engage with its layered narrative and the broader discussions around polygamy and women’s rights. The ongoing debate around these themes does not just belong to one culture but resonates globally. According to a 2021 survey by the Pew Research Center, nearly 50% of people in various countries believe that polygamous relationships can be detrimental to women, emphasizing the film’s relevance.
As “The Vile” unfolds, viewers are left questioning not only the characters’ choices but also the systems that shape their lives.
