Sounds of the Sea: Tales of Past Traditions
Karolina Abbas
Nujoom Al Ghanem has always been keen on making people the centre of her stories. The human element is what characterizes her documentaries, and Sounds of the Sea is no exception.
The talented Emirati filmmaker brings us the story of Humaid Al Shehi, the head of the Umm Al Quwain Folklore Society who seeks to revive traditional Emirati songs that were sung at sea to the fishermen once upon a time. He seeks the help of Saif Alzibadi, one of the most famous and venerated singers the country has known. Saif is an elderly man who yearns to cross Umm Al Quwain Creek and sing traditional Emirati songs to the fisherman one last time. Humaid is a sick old man and his children oppose the idea. However, he does not despair and is able to accomplish his wish. He does that with the help of his old friend Sultan Bin Ghaffan. He is able to go on one last adventure and sing one more song, although he must do it on secret.
This beautifully directed documentary sheds light on a disappearing Emirati tradition. It’s an appreciation of traditions deeply rooted in the history of the Emirates, seen through the eyes of Humaid and his countrymen who long for the past and its moving stories.
Film Screening: Sat 10/25/2014 21:15 Vox 1
Sun 10/26/2014 21:30 Vox 1