for the most part an ode to peace and to women, Where Do We Go Now? portrays a small, isolated Lebanese village threatened by sectarian conflict between Christians and Muslims. the local women from both sides, hoping to prevent violence among their husbands and sons, conspire to maintain the peace. Nadine Labaki, the director, takes an unconventionally lighthearted approach to a sacred, grim topic. this works generally and the film's well-intentioned charm is appealing to see, although there are some real tragedies that aim to hit hard and they also work. but that introduces the film's biggest flaw; it's because Labaki plays on the double register of drama and comedy, mixed with some musical elements, switching from one to the other, that the film struggles to find a consistent tone. it's not easy to introduce a tragedy like a mother losing her son and then cool the mood with comedy.
it goes without saying that some ideological ideals of the film are problematic. in essence, the film wonders if the world would be a more peaceful place if ruled by women. the film often shows women in gatherings, like a mature, unmanipulated force, as apposed to men, who are senselessly driven by testosterone and intolerance. this notion doesn't really bother me; it does have some truth to it, and also helps the comedic aspect. but it overall brings down the credibility of the more serious moments.
it goes without saying that some ideological ideals of the film are problematic. in essence, the film wonders if the world would be a more peaceful place if ruled by women. the film often shows women in gatherings, like a mature, unmanipulated force, as apposed to men, who are senselessly driven by testosterone and intolerance. this notion doesn't really bother me; it does have some truth to it, and also helps the comedic aspect. but it overall brings down the credibility of the more serious moments.