Four Daughters (2023)

Original Title: Les filles d’Olfa

Four Daughters, the brainchild of Tunisian director Kaouther Ben Hania, is a documentary unlike any other I’ve seen. It weaves a heartbreaking narrative around Olfa Hamrouni, a mother grappling with the loss of her two eldest daughters to Islamic extremism. Ben Hania doesn’t get into the specifics of radicalisation; instead, she focuses on the emotional fallout and the gaping hole that ideology-shattered families leave behind.

The film’s brilliance lies in its unconventional approach. Ben Hania employs a blend of documentary techniques and fictionalised reenactments. Olfa and her two remaining daughters work alongside actors who portray the lost sisters. These staged scenes, though initially jarring, become surprisingly poignant. They allow Olfa and her daughters to confront their past, to rewrite memories, and perhaps even find a semblance of closure.

While the acting by the non-professionals is understandably raw, the emotional heft of their performances is undeniable. There’s a palpable sense of vulnerability in Olfa’s every word, a quiet desperation that tugs at your heartstrings. The film doesn’t shy away from the complexities of grief and the anger that often simmers beneath the surface. It’s a testament to Ben Hania’s direction that these nuanced emotions translate so powerfully to the screen.

Technically, Four Daughters is a well-crafted piece. The camerawork is unobtrusive, allowing the focus to remain on the characters and their stories. The score is a melancholic tapestry of traditional Arabic music and modern soundscapes, perfectly complementing the film’s emotional core. The editing is sharp, seamlessly weaving together the documentary and reenacted elements.

The approach that the director has taken to blurring the lines between documentary and fiction might leave some viewers disoriented. And the movie doesn’t delve deeply into the socio-political context that fuels extremism, which could be a missed opportunity for some viewers. However, these shortcomings pale in comparison to the film’s overall impact. Four Daughters is a powerful exploration of loss, resilience, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. It is the kind of movie that makes you think and talk about things like faith, family, and the allure of extremism.

Four Daughters is often a difficult watch, but it’s a necessary one. If you’re looking for a documentary that transcends the genre, a film that burrows into your soul and lays bare the human condition, then Four Daughters is a must-see. Just be prepared to have your heart broken, then pieced back together, stronger, and forever changed.

(In cinemas — check your local movie guide for show times.)