The Season of Men 2001

An 18-year-old girl named Aïcha resides on the beautiful island of Djerba, where she is married to Said, who spends much of his time working in Tunis. Before Aïcha can join him in the bustling capital, Said expresses a desire for her to bear him a son. Living under the strict authority of her mother-in-law, alongside several other wives who also wait for their husbands to return, Aïcha’s life is filled with challenges. Eventually, she gives birth to a son named Aziz and is granted permission to reunite with Said in Tunis.

However, the joy of motherhood soon turns to sorrow when it becomes apparent that Aziz faces developmental issues, leading to a likely diagnosis of autism. This news causes Said to turn his back on his son, forcing Aïcha to make the heart-wrenching decision to return to Djerba, accompanied by her son and her two adult daughters. The narrative skillfully shifts between Aïcha’s past—filled with tender moments of joy with her young daughters on Djerba before Aziz’s birth—and the present, where Aziz, now around eight years old, adjusts to life back on the island.

As the film unfolds, we see Aïcha and Aziz collaborating on the loom, creating intricate tapestries that Aïcha sells to support their family. The story culminates in a poignant moment as Aïcha’s younger daughter, Emna, prepares to leave, marking a new chapter in their lives. Ultimately, Aïcha and Aziz find solace in each other’s company as they continue their journey together in Djerba, weaving the fabric of their daily lives.