Tarfaya (2004) User Reviews

Exotic and other worldly

[johno-21 · 7/10 · 2 February 2006]

I saw this film back at the 2005 Palm Springs International Film Festival and found this to be a good movie. This is a small film but has a surprising big look about through it's cinematography and on-location setting. Smuggling, robbery, deception, violence, fear and mistrust are an everyday experience in the illegal immigration trafficking from Morrocco to Spain. But there is also sympathy, kindness and hope. Touria Alaoui is excellent in the role of Miriam. This French and Morrocan film delivers a great visual atmosphere. A real other worldly feel to this. There is a real plight with dozens being killed each year as thousands flee from south Saharan African states to Europe and a lot has happened in that region since this film was released so I wouldn't be surprised to see more films in future years coming out dealing with this subject. I would give this film a 7.0 and recommend it.

Beautiful movie

[LeRoyMarko · 8/10 · 2 April 2006]

Interesting to see what it's possible to do even with a low budget. Beautiful cinematography, very good acting, especially by lead actress Touria Alaoui. It's the simple and poignant story of Miriam (Alaoui), a young Morrocan woman who wants to cross to Spain. Just like so many Cubans want to make it alive to Florida, the hardship and dangers that illegal immigrants like Miriam face are great. There's hope of course, but also deception. Dreams are shattered, just as well as they are answered. The ending left me wondering...

Seen at the Royal Cinema, in Toronto, during Cinéfranco, on April 2nd, 2006.

84/100 (***)