Limbo, written and directed by Ben Sharrock, is a BAFTA nominated and even more importantly, one of the first films debuted in the post Covid, reopened Burns Court Cinema!
Limbo takes a granular look at individuals in refugee crisis, specifically four men stuck in limbo on a Scottish island awaiting asylum approval.
The four men are all unique, not only in countries of origin (two of different African nations and two of Middle Eastern descent), but personalities, dreams and goals. From acceptance to a minimum wage life to dreams of being a soccer star, the four attempt to keep hope alive in this bleak and mostly sunless landscape.
Amir El-Masry portrays the main character, Omar, who lugs his mandolin-like instrument around like an albatross, unable to resume his consummate expertise due to his longing for home and family.
The cinematography, including Northern Lights that many of us only dream of seeing, and of the unending dirt roads in lonesome vacant vistas, helps to build the poignancy of the men’s plight. A very creative sequence with marbled glass doors helps symbolize the men’s multifaceted emotions regarding missing home, yet realizing they are better off even as strangers in a strange land.
Comedic cultural awareness instructors and a fixation with a pet rooster help alleviate some of the angst. Still Limbo left me with a lasting impression that not only am I grateful to be living in the sunshine state, but that refugees deserve human care and intervention.
Limbo: an eye opening look at refugees
