Blessed Benefit

Blessed Benefit is a compelling 2016 Jordanian, German, and Dutch co-production, directed by Mahmoud al Massad. The film stars some of the most skilled actors in Jordanian cinema, Ahmad Thaher, Maher Khammash, and Odai Hijazi, whose performances bring depth and emotion to the story, creating a rounded portrayal of the characters' lives.

At the heart of the plot is Ahmad, an everyday construction worker portrayed by Ahmad Thaher. Facing circumstances that many citizens are familiar with, Ahmad is caught in the complexities and pitfalls of bureaucratic processes in Jordan. Despite his best efforts to make ends it meet, he is implicated in a shady deal that results in not so favorable court ruling. Consequently, he is sent to jail where he encounters a world he was far removed from.

Behind the grey prison walls, Ahmad meets Ibrahim, played by Maher Khammash and Abu Fathi, played by Odai Hijazi. Ironically, the harsh circumstances of the outer world compared to prison life make Ahmad question his previous perception of freedom or the idea of being blessed. The characters of Ibrahim and Abu Fathi serve as catalysts for change in Ahmad's life, creating for him new and surprisingly optimistic perspectives.

The film delves into the comparative situation where jail, typically seen as a place of punishment, becomes a refuge from the harsh realities faced by an ordinary citizen like Ahmad who tries to muddle through the chaos and complexities of society. The role of Ahmad reflects the experiences of every common man who is a victim of societal, legal, and economic conditions prevailing in the society, thereby resonating with the masses and achieving an emotional connect with the viewers.

Director Mahmoud al Massad cleverly explores the notion of freedom, captivity, and societal pressures using humor and satire. He forces viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about what freedom truly means and how it sometimes exists in the most unlikely of places.

Ahmad Thaher's performance as a common man forced into extraordinary circumstances has been lauded for his nuanced portrayal, blending despair and hope in equal measure. Opposite him, Maher Khammash and Odai Hijazi provide compelling performances as figures who help Ahmad navigate this new world with a sense of camaraderie and humor. Their highly consistent and emotional portrayals not only bring out the best in their character but also help emphasize on the themes of human endurance, friendship, and the absurdities of life's predicaments.

The film is not merely confined to a linear narrative, the director intersperses the story with subplots that provide commentary on bureaucracy, corruption, urbanization, and societal pressures, thereby making it a true social satire. An intriguing aspect of Blessed Benefit is its ability to weave dark humor into serious narratives with a strong commentary on the society. Even within the confines of a prison, the film captures moments of joy, camaraderie, and a surprising sense of freedom.

Blessed Benefit has been shot in a variety of locations in Jordan, bringing the authenticity and colors of the country to the screen. The film beautifully incorporates the true essence of these locales, making them almost a character in itself, thereby enhancing the cinematic experience.

Blessed Benefit is a thought-provoking and reflective film that combines elements of humor and satire to present a commentary on societal pressures, injustice, and complexities of the judicial system. It sets a refreshing perspective on the lives of ordinary individuals pushed against the wall and compels the viewers to question their understanding of freedom. The performances of the lead actors coupled with the astute direction of Mahmoud al Massad make Blessed Benefit an enriching cinematic experience worthwhile.