Thank You for Banking with Us

Laila Abbas
festival
Mon 28 Apr 25 - Sun 4 May 25
  • kijkwijzer14

This sharp debut film, filled with witty dialogue, shows that not all films from Palestine are stories about the conflict with Israel, and that women, as in many countries, have to fight against patriarchal structures. 

Two sisters lead very different lives. Although there is little love between them, they agree on one thing: when their elderly father dies, the inheritance should go to the daughters who cared for him, not to their absent brother. During a wild night, they, out of the blue, receive unexpected support. Support which may or may not help them to succeed in their plan. 

This is certainly not the first film about women who are oppressed by Islamic inheritance laws. However, this film stands out because of its well-crafted script: two well-developed characters, witty dialogue, sharp one-liners, and humor propel this race against time. The film offers a devastating and believable portrayal of patriarchal oppression, without shying away from the harsh realities of conflict and tension. 

direction
Laila Abbas
cast
Yasmine Al Massri, Clara Khoury, Kamel El Basha
duration
92 min
year
2024
country
Palestine, State of
language
Arabic, English
Subtitles
Dutch
  • kijkwijzer14

festival

"This simple story illuminates daily battles for women across the globe every day. In the end, “Thank You For Banking With Us” is a charming, personal look at a tragic system."- Daniel Howat, Next Best Picture