Sabah

Sabah, having just turned forty, is a smart, attractive Arabic Muslim woman living in Toronto, whose passion and independence have been dulled by 20 years of duty to her loving yet demanding family. Especially from the long days spent doting on her affable mother. Things used to be different, but Sabah’s family retreated into a more conservative Arab lifestyle after her father’s sudden death upon their arrival to Canada.Next to her family duties, Sabah’s continual frustration is the regular need to answer to her older brother Majid, who controls not only the family’s finances but also the family’s choices. As a treat to herself on her fortieth birthday, she sneaks off to go swimming, where she meets Stephen. After another ‘chance’ meeting in the water, Sabah agrees to go out for lunch with Stephen. Their differences become their strengths and their attraction becomes more than just two objects defined by the pull of gravity. Both surprised and concerned, Sabah falls in love with Stephen. However, the pressures of leading a double life begin to take their toll on both the relationship and her family life. Finally, Sabah must confront her family.Ruba Nadda, an acclaimed short film maker, spent years refining her intelligent script about a woman stuck in between cultures before an inch of film was shot. The well-known Lebanese-Canadian actress Arsinée Khanjian, whose charismatic presence dominates the film, turns in a wonderful performance as Sabah. (EH)