Rent Capernaum (2018)

Why did the little boy sue his parents? - Capernaum review by AB

Eleven year old Zain, who lives in Beirut, decides to sue his parents. Watch the film and you will found out why. It is a heart-rending tale of poverty, immigrants, and the daily struggle to survive. Zain shows compassion, courage and creativity when he finds himself looking after an adorable toddler, with no help whatsoever. A tough but rewarding watch. Subtitled.

Beautifully done with powerful message - Capernaum review by Pete

This was a superb evocation of life in the slums of Beirut. Acting was very convincing which made the film gripping. For a period, although the film was always interesting, it was unclear that where (if anywhere) the whole thing was going. However in the end it all came together brilliantly, making a powerful observation.

Superb - Capernaum review by WB

In short this is a beautifully acted and very touching film about a young lad in the slums of Beirut who takes the bold step of suing his feckless parents. It is moving, realistic and the young leads are superb. Excellent

Stunning Team Production - Capernaum review by LA

An incredible co-operative group effort from the film production team and all the characters in the film is revealed in the footage showing the making of the story at the end of this film. The most poignant central relationship in the story of Capernaum - real life in chaos - is between a small boy and a baby, both left to care for themselves and each other in the poverty stricken suburbs of Beirut. Sad, but also very moving. And when you see the involvement of the team, the children and their real families it is all the more extraordinary.

Emotionally devastating cinema. - Capernaum review by TE

This is a magnificent film that defies criticism with its sheer honesty and emotional punch.

At times the abject poverty and the marginal lives of the children are almost unbearable to watch. Zain al Rafeea's performance is incredibly good (and he doesn't look anywhere near as old as 12, the age he is supposed to be). The baby is, of course, not acting...but even so he deserves his own Oscar.

It is helpful to watch the short special feature film of life on the set. This offsets concerns as to the treatment of the children in the film, though the director certainly tests the boundaries of what is ethically acceptable.

Nadine Labaki goes from strength to strength as a film-maker.

Poor subtitles - Capernaum review by JK

Cannot write a review as sub titles too small and often faded into the background. Why can't distributors provided good clear subtitles ; some do i.e.white or yellow on a black background.

Sensational - Capernaum review by TB

I completely fell in love with this movie and was sat there feeling numb and with tears in my eyes as the final credits rolled.

 Zain Al Rafeea put in a spellbinding performance that rose way above his years.

The film is beautiful, yet harrowing and the sensational acting alongside the well shot scenes really tug at your heartstrings.

The very real poverty, immigration and refugee backbone that runs through this film leaves you  really hurt inside but also so grateful that you have been fortunate enough to not be born into the hell that these poor people have been born into.

Shocking and harrowing but without doubt one of the greatest films I’ve ever seen.