For Sama

For Sama

Year: 2019

Runtime: 100 min

Language: Arabic

Directors: Edward Watts, Waad Al-Khateab

Documentary

Amidst the devastation of Aleppo, Syria, a young mother, Waad al-Kateab, documents five years of civil war in a deeply personal love letter to her daughter. Her intimate chronicle captures moments of joy and profound sacrifice, offering a harrowing look at the resilience of women in wartime. Faced with impossible choices, she films the struggle to protect her child and maintain her convictions, revealing the heart-wrenching realities of a nation torn apart.

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Timeline – For Sama (2019)

Trace every key event in For Sama (2019) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Waad's Early Advocacy

The timeline begins in 2012 when Waad Al-Khateab, a marketing student at Aleppo University, becomes an advocate for change against Bashar al-Assad's regime. Amid widespread protests, she captures the initial waves of hope among demonstrators, using her camera to document this crucial and turbulent period in Syria's history.

2012 Aleppo University, Syria
2

Meeting Hamza

During the protests in Aleppo, Waad meets Hamza Al-Khateab, a young medic dedicated to helping the injured. Their connection blossoms amidst the chaos, forming a bond that unites their aspirations for freedom in a country beset by violence and oppression.

2012 Aleppo, Syria
3

Chaos and Violence Escalates

As the protests grow, so does the violence in Aleppo. Waad and Hamza navigate around snipers, airstrikes, and the devastating effects of barrel bombs, documenting their harrowing experiences and the bravery of those fighting for their rights and freedom.

2013-2014 Aleppo, Syria
4

Hamza's Proposal

Amidst the growing violence, Hamza proposes to Waad, offering a moment of love and hope during distressing times. They marry shortly after and begin to build a life together in their first home, embracing the challenges of war while nurturing their dreams.

2014 Aleppo, Syria
5

Welcoming a New Life

As the couple settles into married life, they discover they are expecting a child. This new chapter brings mixed emotions, as they confront the joy of impending parenthood against the backdrop of an ongoing conflict that threatens their very existence.

2015 Aleppo, Syria
6

Russian Intervention

In September 2015, Russian forces intervene in the Syrian conflict, escalating the violence and complicating the couple's struggles. Despite the heightened dangers surrounding them, Waad and Hamza remain steadfast, determined to protect their soon-to-be-born daughter, Sama.

September 2015 Aleppo, Syria
7

Sama's Birth

On January 1, 2016, Sama is born, providing a glimmer of hope amidst the despair surrounding her family. Her arrival symbolizes resilience and the unwavering spirit of her parents as they navigate the challenges of raising a child in a war-torn city.

January 1, 2016 Aleppo, Syria
8

Life Amidst Conflict

Sama's early days are marked by unimaginable chaos as her family witnesses the intensifying battle for Aleppo. Waad and Hamza strive to create joyful moments for their daughter, amidst the backdrop of bombings, chemical attacks, and the threats posed by the regime.

2016 Aleppo, Syria
9

Hamza's Hospital Bombed

The hospital where Hamza practices medicine becomes a target, suffering multiple bombings that threaten lives. The couple's resolve is tested as they fight to survive and provide medical assistance amid harrowing conditions, capturing the struggles on film.

2016 Aleppo, Syria
10

Exile from Aleppo

As systemic violence escalates, Waad and Hamza are forced to make the heartbreaking decision to leave Aleppo. They pack their belongings, shedding tears for their home city, which has been a symbol of their dreams and aspirations for freedom.

Late 2016 Aleppo, Syria
11

Carrying Hope

During their departure from Aleppo, Waad and Hamza carry with them the essence of their daughter, Sama. As they embark on the journey into exile, she becomes a symbol of love and resilience within their family, an enduring reminder that hope can survive even amidst darkness.

12

Documenting the Conflict

Throughout their experiences, Waad continues to document the realities of the Syrian conflict, creating a powerful narrative that counters the portrayal of a 'civil war.' She captures the profound impacts of external interventions by Russia, Iran, and Hezbollah.

Aleppo, Syria

Last Updated: November 16, 2024 at 14:27

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For Sama Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in For Sama

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