Review of The Band's Visit (2007) by Melissa A — 14 Jul 2009

The Band's Visit was unable to win best foreign film at the Oscars since the dialogue had more than 50% English. It didn't meet the criteria and therefore was disqualified. This decision caused a lot of controversy but at least this movie has been acknowledged and supported elsewhere because it is such an unique piece of work, at least in my opinion! The story revolves around a police band from Egypt, who are asked to travel to Israel to perform at an Arab Cultural Center.

Thinking they are on the right track, the eight men take the wrong bus and end up in a small isolated Israeli village. They are not welcomed with open arms at first but there is definitely a bond that develops over the course of time especially between two of the characters, one named Dina who is clearly more aggressive than the band's leader, Tewfiq who keeps himself at a distance.

Through the subtle pace of the film, there is a realization of the cross-cultural barriers starting to break down, but there is still is that underlying tension and uncertainty that lingers in the body language of the characters.

There were definitely a lot of funny and tender moments showing how similar we actually are, no matter where we come from.