Sabah 2005

-Sabah is a 40-year-old immigrant from Syria living in Toronto with her family. She is responsible for her mother’s well-being. Since her father’s death, her brother Majid has been the family authority figure.

• Her niece, Souhaire, does not want him choosing her husband. His marriage is rocky, and he insists on tradition. Sabah decides to start swimming again; an activity not allowed by Majid. At a city pool she meets Stephen; there is an undeniable attraction, and Sabah keeps their friendship hidden from the rest of the family because he is not Muslim.

As time passes, their relationship deepens, and they eventually share a kiss. Sabah’s niece teaches her belly dancing, a hobby Sabah comes to enjoy. One day, while visiting Stephen at his carpenter workshop, she decides to stay overnight with him. Informing her mother that she will not be back that night, she dances and the two have sexual intercourse.

The next day, upon returning home, she faces her mother, brother, sister, sister-in-law and niece who are anxiously waiting for her. After some hesitation, she tells them the truth about her actions in the last few months. Majid responds by announcing that Sabah is no longer a part of the family, as Muslim traditions forbid marriage for Muslim women to non-Muslims. Sabah leaves, and Majid decides to take care of their mother.

Back at Stephen’s workshop, Sabah is met by her mother, sister and sister-in-law who urge her to speak with Majid. He explains that the money their father left had run out eight years ago and that he has been supporting the family on his own. Eventually both sides acknowledge that the family must change. The women of the family are impressed by Stephen and his deep blue eyes.

The film closes with a communal feast at Sabah’s family home. Stephen mingles with his in-laws and everyone enjoys a moment of reconciliation and warmth.