MOVIE REVIEW
What Is Buried Must Remain
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Genre: Horror
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 34m
Director(s): Elias Matar
Writer(s): Elias Matar, Edward E. Romero, Israa Samman, Hamza Zahab
Cast: Asma Jumaa, Hassan Alkhefe, Hamza Zahab, Ahmed Alrefai, Farouk Zaroura, Ahmed Khreta, Nour Al Zahab, Dahlia Nemlich, Ahmad Dalati, Altaf Al-Assi, Khalil Rdeini
Where To Watch: arrives on Screambox on April 12, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: By exploring supernatural and human fear, the film challenges its audience to confront their perceptions of the refugee crisis. By employing horror as a lens through which the struggles of Syrian refugees are magnified, director Elias Matar invites viewers to engage with these experiences on a visceral level. WHAT IS BURIED MUST REMAIN's power lies in its ability to scare and stir empathy, provoke thought, and inspire action. It’s a testament to the medium’s potential to transcend entertainment and catalyze social awareness and change.

Matar’s WHAT IS BURIED MUST REMAIN doesn't just creep into the shadows; it mixes the chill of ghostly encounters with the real-world struggle of Syrian refugees in Lebanon. Imagine a film where a journey through a “haunted house” meets the grave reality of seeking hope amidst despair. That’s the journey Alaa, Shadi, and Lara take us on, their quest for viral fame doubling as a vivid metaphor for their fight for survival. This blend of supernatural and survival storylines gives the film its unique edge and emotional pull.

Casting real-world Syrian refugees as the protagonists, the film brings unparalleled authenticity and depth. These aren't just actors playing parts but individuals pouring their lived experiences into every scene. The setting—a once-majestic, now rundown mansion—transforms from mere scenery into a symbol of their tangled paths of loss, longing, and the search for a place to call home. This ultimately created an atmosphere that brought every scene to life.

The film’s ambition to meld found footage with a more traditional cinematic narrative sometimes causes ripples in its flow. The innovative attempt at storytelling can occasionally distract, pulling viewers out of the moment rather than drawing them deeper in. Still, this doesn’t significantly diminish the film's impact. The resilience of the human spirit and the message of hope that WHAT IS BURIED MUST REMAIN shares cannot be ignored, marking its place in the found-footage horror genre with a bold underline.

Beyond the thrills and chills, the movie stitches in layers of socio-political commentary, offering a broader perspective on the issues it tackles. Not all horror fans may vibe with its unique approach, as it sidesteps typical genre conventions for something more thought-provoking. Yet, its contribution to cinema—as a medium that gives voice to the voiceless and stitches together diverse narratives through a shared human experience—is undeniable.

WHAT IS BURIED MUST REMAIN is a poignant reflection on humanity and its best and worst qualities. It blends the terror of the supernatural with the terror of real-life horrors in a captivating and reflective way. While navigating some narrative hiccups, the film's heart and authenticity shine through, leaving a lasting impression that extends well beyond the final scene. It’s a haunting exploration and a reminder of the stories worth telling and remembering.

@screamboxtv

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[photo courtesy of SCREAMBOX]

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