The Blue Caftan

With just two films under her belt, Moroccan director Maryam Touzani's penchant for delving into the complexities of characters trapped in societal conventions is evident. His latest, The Blue Caftan, is a poignant exploration of human emotions set within the confines of an oppressive society. 

Through a powerful use of subtle glances and profound silences, Touzani convincingly portrays the repressed desire that Halim (a remarkable Saleh Bakri), a middle-aged tailor, feels towards his young male apprentice, Youssef (Ayoub Messioui). While this repressed desire bubbles, Mina (a fantastic Lubna Azabal), Halim's wife and fellow shop worker, is grappling with a serious illness. But despite Halim's lack of desire towards Mina, their relationship is portrayed with unwavering love and mutual respect.

Touzani adeptly balances both storylines, cleverly avoiding didactic speeches and instead creates a melancholic yet authentic portrayal of the injustices in Moroccan society, free from sentimentalism. While the film may not break new ground, it's part of a well-intentioned body of queer cinema that seeks to combat intolerance.

With a keen eye for capturing emotion and skilful performances from the cast, Touzani approaches the subject matter with sensitivity and purpose, creating a film that is crafted with care that should appeal to a wide audience. The Blue Caftan serves as a compelling indication of Touzani's talent and vision as a filmmaker, showcasing her humanity in tackling complex themes. With bolder storytelling and less conventional narratives in the future, Touzani could emerge as a major voice in African cinema.

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Released 5 May by New Wave; certificate 12A