1982

To tell someone that you are in love with them is as difficult in war time as in peace. It is the summer of 1982, and the siege of the capital of Lebanon, Beirut is approaching fast. For the 11-year-old Wissam, on the other hand, the focus is on Joanna. They both attend an international school in the hills close to the city, and as the bomb noises are getting closer and closer to the school building, we follow Wissam’s clumsy, but charming approaches towards the girl he is in love with.

The nerve is present all the way in 1982 and intensifies as the signs of war come to the surface. It is fascinating to watch the schoolteachers (among them master director and actress Nadine Labaki in a compelling role) try to keep the pupils calm as their surroundings no longer feel safe. 1982 is an important reminder of how short the line between everyday life and a war zone can be, manifested by the fact that the action takes place just within a single day. Director Mouaness has made a very authentic film mainly based on his own memories of the last dramatic days in Lebanon before he and his family had to escape the country.

Oualid Mouaness grew up between Lebanon and Liberia, and he studied in both Beirut and Florida. Earlier, he has directed several short films and documentaries. His last short film, The Rifle, the Jackal, the Wolf and the Boy was shortlisted for an Oscar in 2017. Mouaness has also been involved in making music videos for artists such as David Bowie, Rihanna and Katy Perry.