Think of war-scarred Beirut and the last thing you’d expect it to play backdrop for is a comedy about modern women and their relationships. In fact, Caramel, a cosmopolitan slice of female solidarity gravitating around a Beirut beauty shop, is dedicated to the city in which it takes place. If nothing else, it’s refreshing to see the city on screen not being torn apart by violence.
While it doesn’t do much different from the standard feel good girly movie, the location provides an exotic setting thanks to the tasteful cinematography, use of colour and specific details of the local culture creating a vivid dramatic world. Spearheading this look is debutante director and lead actress Nadine Labaki. Behind the camera she seems influenced by Pedro Almodovar, while in front of it she is so stunning that you can understand her tendency to give herself a little too much camera time. However, she is so photogenic that she almost contradicts the edge of realism she maintains throughout as director. The female ensemble cast provide her with convincing support, handling drama and comedy equally well.
Because of its familiar style, gentle humour and universal, upbeat themes, Caramel is an accessible film for people who don’t normally like sub-titles. It’s as good as any recent Hollywood chick flick and a great highlight reel for Nadine Labaki.
