Of Fathers and Sons

In the gripping documentary Of Fathers and Sons, released in 2017, filmmaker Talal Derki embarks on a profound journey into the heart of a war-torn Syria, gaining unprecedented access to a radical Islamist family living under the shadow of an Islamic Caliphate. Over the course of two years, Derki intimately documents the daily lives of the family, particularly focusing on the brothers Osama and Ayman. Through their experiences, the film delves into the complexities of indoctrination, the weight of familial expectations, and the stark realities of growing up in a society where violence and extremism are woven into the fabric of life.

As we witness the brothers navigate their childhood amidst the trials of conflict and ideological fervor, the film raises poignant questions about the nature of fatherhood and the legacy of beliefs passed from generation to generation. Osama, the older brother, grapples with the burdens of expectation as he is groomed to follow in his father's militant footsteps, while Ayman's innocence is threatened by the harsh realities surrounding them. With a raw and unflinching lens, Of Fathers and Sons not only sheds light on the personal struggles of its subjects but also invites viewers to reflect on the broader implications of war and radicalization, making it a thought-provoking watch for anyone interested in the human stories that lie beneath the headlines.