Thank You for Banking with Us might sound like the title of a customer or product training video, but let me assure you, it’s anything but. This delightful film offers a refreshing blend of humour and heartfelt moments as it navigates the serious issues of gender inequality and patriarchal culture in the Middle Eastern context. Directed by Laila Abbas, this film is a witty yet sobering exploration of inheritance laws, and its consequences in a politically charged landscape. Despite the clever antics, it manages to deliver a compelling message about staying true to oneself.
At the heart of the story are Mariam and Noura, two sisters whose bond has seen better days. Initially, the sisters are estranged, burdened by past grievances and misunderstandings. However, as they face their common struggle, the dynamic evolves, revealing the strength and resilience of women coming together. They find themselves on a comical yet gripping journey to reclaim their inheritance before their absentee brother will be granted half of everything their recently-died father owns. As they navigate the labyrinth of cultural and financial bureaucracy, it becomes clear that this isn’t just a personal struggle, it’s a reflection on the societal structures that keep women at the losing end. It’s a clever juxtaposition that showcases Abbas’s ability to tackle tough topics while keeping the audience’s engagement. It’s a gentle reminder of the struggles faced by women in the Middle East and beyond. But rather than a somber exploration, the film strikes a balance between dark themes and a lighthearted tone. Whether it’s their frantic search for a male impersonator to mimic their deceased father’s voice or the knowing-look and exchanges with emphatetic female bank teller, the film precisely illustrates the strength that comes from female solidarity.
As Mariam and Noura grapple with the fact of their situation, they simultaneously shine a light on the complication of a system designed to keep them subordinate. It’s a clever twist that brings smiles yet insight reflecting on the serious implications of these laws while giggling at somewhat desperate solutions. As they navigate the depth of their prospect, the sisters learn to set aside their differences and unite for a common goal. This not only adds stars to their characters but also serves as an inspiration for viewers. Then there’s Mariam’s older son, whose character offers a refreshing counter-narrative to the typical portrayal of troubled youth. Instead of turning to crime, he channels his frustrations into activism, embodying a sense of duty. It adds an intriguing layer to the film, illustrating the complexities of familial relationships amidst broader societal issues. It’s refreshing to see determination in the most challenging circumstances. The film’s setting plays a role in its storytelling. The quiet, eerie atmosphere at night reflects the societal pressures and uncertainties faced by the characters, grounding the narrative in the realities of life. Abbas’s use of local talents and chosen settings contributes to the film’s overall authenticity, offering a glimpse into life that transcends typical narratives of conflict. The adult male characters embody and reinforce the patriarchal structures that benefit them. Mariam’s husband epitomises subservient culture that tend to dismiss genuine feelings while dutifully providing for family and children. Similarly, her brother embodies the authoritative male figure, insisting on maintaining traditional laws. Their thoughts and actions reflect societal norms in many regions worldwide, subtly highlighting the intersectionality of a region in conflict’s strife.
At the film’s premiere at the BFI London Film Festival, Abbas and the cast offered insightful commentary on the socio-political realities depicted in the film. They discussed the historical shift from secularism to stricter religious laws put in place due to external oppression, providing a sobering context that enriches the film’s narrative. This real-world revelation not only provides understanding of the backdrop of the storyline and its characters’ development but also opens up insights into the motivations behind making this film. Laila Abbas certainly crafts a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Despite chaos and adversity, there is room for wit, cleverness, and the unwavering spirit of women supporting one another. The film encourages you to laugh, to empathise, and ultimately to think about the structures that govern many societies. With its unique blend and angle, it will leave you rooting for the sisters and reflecting on your own power and potential. It makes it clear that the more people are oppressed by external forces, the more they tend to marginalise a subsection of their own group for the sake of more control. Thank You for Banking with Us is an assured and emotive reminder of that fact.
