Palestinian director Laila Abbas’ ‘Thank You for Banking With Us!’ wins Best Film at the 9th Critics Awards for Arab Films at Cannes 2025.
Palestinian director Laila Abbas’ debut feature, Thank You for Banking With Us!, has won Best Film at the 9th Critics Awards for Arab Films, held on the sidelines of the 78th Cannes Film Festival. The film, which also secured Abbas the Best Director award, has been widely praised for its bold storytelling and social commentary.
A Powerful Narrative on Gendered Inheritance Laws
The film delves into the controversial issue of inheritance laws in the Middle East, particularly those dictated by Islamic Sharia law, which often grant men double the share of women. Abbas’ drama follows two sisters, played by Clara Khoury and Yasmine Al Massri, as they race against time to secure their late father’s estate before legal loopholes strip them of their rightful inheritance.
Critics have lauded the film’s gripping narrative, its emotional depth, and its cinematic execution, making it a standout among this year’s Arab film contenders. The film’s success at Cannes underscores the growing recognition of female-driven storytelling in Arab cinema.
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