Directed by Sally El-Hosaini Screenplay by Jack Thorne & Sally El-Hosaini

It’s 2011 in a suburb outside Damascus, Syria. Two sisters are playing in an idyllic pool scene, surrounded by people of all ages splashing and diving in the aqua waters. The sun is shining, and pop music plays in the background. With mountains and occasional palm trees, this scene could be mistaken for somewhere in California. However, there’s a poignant sense of normalcy, knowing what will unfold in Syria in the coming years.

The mundane beginning of “The Swimmers” quickly shifts to 2015, showcasing the story of two sisters fleeing the war. While the Syrian war is well-known, this film offers an eye-opening perspective on refugees, a topic often burdened with stigma. The scriptwriter and director handle the subject matter with sensitivity and importance, bringing real-life situations to the forefront. The film expands its emotional personal story to highlight the wider humanitarian crisis facing migrants today. It’s a production that everyone should see. #WithRefugees

Image courtesy of Netflix