Review of Limbo (2020) by Bertobellamy — 31 Jul 2022

Limbo' will make you remember that borders may have created order but also pain and suffering. Through a simple yet powerful story about a Syrian refugee stuck in Scotland until his asylum is granted, director Ben Sharrock reflects on the unjust struggle of people just looking for a better life.

Sharrock is careful not to romanticize the harsh experience of fleeing home because of the danger that represents staying there; the deadpan comedy is just the perfect ingredient to frame the absurdity of waiting ages for an asylum response. Ari Kaurismäki, Yorgos Lanthimos and Wes Anderson fans will salivate with this.

But at the core of this movie is Amir El-Masry, who portrays Omar, the Syrian refugee. His subtle smiles and the melancholy of his look elevate his character to the max, making us create a whole and sad backstory in our minds. Also, let's not forget Vikash Bhai, who, as Farhad, portrays the most tender and bonkers character in the film.

'Limbo,' just like 'Flee' and 'His House,' each one with a different style and approach, embodies the tragedy of the refugee crisis and the numerous ways Europe is failing to provide a solution to this huge problem.