Capernaum

Capernaum’s ending is powerful and thought-provoking. Throughout the film, Zain, a boy from the slums of Beirut, has been fighting against a system that neglects and abuses the vulnerable. When he sues his parents for giving him life in such harsh conditions, it symbolizes his demand for accountability—they created a life filled with suffering that he no longer wishes to endure. The court dismisses his case, but Zain’s act of rebellion sends a clear message about the injustices faced by children like him.

In the final scenes, Zain is living as a refugee in Norway, attending school for the first time and experiencing some stability and care he never had before. This stark contrast highlights the resilience of the human spirit and the possibility of hope even after enduring profound hardship. The film’s closing shot is both raw and poignant, showing Zain sitting in a classroom, with his face filled with a mixture of hope and uncertainty. It underscores that despite the chaos and pain he has endured, there remains a chance for renewal and a brighter future. The ending leaves viewers contemplating the cycles of violence and neglect that children like Zain are caught in, urging us to reflect on the social systems that allow such suffering to persist. Ultimately, Capernaum is a devastating yet hopeful reminder of the importance of empathy and justice in a world often indifferent to children’s lives.

Last Updated: June 25, 2025 at 08:58