Huda's Salon

Huda's Salon is a Palestinian drama film directed by Hany Abu-Assad and released in 2021. The movie primarily revolves around the protagonist, Huda, who runs a salon in Palestine. Huda, played by Maisa Abd Elhadi, is a strong-willed woman determined to make her business successful despite various social, cultural, and political barriers.

The film starts with Huda styling hair for a bride on her wedding day. However, the festivities are cut short when a political protest erupts nearby, and Huda is forced to close her salon early. This event sets the tone for the rest of the movie as Huda faces several challenges related to politics, gender inequality, and family dynamics.

Throughout the film, Huda's Salon serves as a safe space for the women of the community. The salon is a place where women can express themselves freely and uninhibitedly. The story tackles many important themes such as the empowerment of women, freedom of speech, the impact of politics on daily life, and the importance of family bonds.

Huda's family is an integral part of the film. Her sister Mona, played by Manal Awad, is a divorced mother of two who wants to start her own business but struggles to get past societal norms that dictate women should not work outside of the home. Mona's story arc is a testament to the struggles faced by many women in traditional societies when they dare to step out of the prescribed roles set for them.

Ali Suliman plays Hani, Huda's former lover, who has since moved on to a new relationship. Despite this, Huda still harbors feelings for him, which complicates her life further. Huda's son Amjad also plays an important role in the movie. Amjad is a young man who is frustrated with the political situation in Palestine but is unsure of what he can do to make a difference.

Huda's Salon also highlights the challenges faced by small business owners in Palestine. Huda's salon is not a fancy establishment, but she takes pride in her work and her business. She must navigate various obstacles, including getting permits and dealing with corrupt officials. Huda's story is a testament to the strength and resilience of the Palestinian people in the face of adversity.

The movie is shot beautifully, with stunning visuals of Palestine's landscapes and its vibrant culture. The director skillfully portrays the tension and unease that lingers in the atmosphere due to the political situation in Palestine.

Huda's Salon is a nuanced and thought-provoking movie that conveys a deep sense of hope despite its honest portrayal of the struggles and challenges faced by people living in Palestine. The movie shows that in the face of adversity, the human spirit can triumph and that even in the darkest moments, there is always hope for a better tomorrow.

Overall, Huda's Salon is an excellent watch for anyone who wants to gain insight into the lives and struggles faced by people living in Palestine. It is a powerful, emotional, and inspiring film that is both thought-provoking and heartwarming.