The Secret of the Grain

Slimane Beiji, a recently divorced father, navigates the complexities of family life in Sete. His divorce sets the stage for his emotional journey as he interacts with various family members, showcasing the challenges of maintaining relationships post-separation.

As Slimane grapples with his divorce, he also faces the imminent loss of his job at the local shipyard. This dual burden drives him to create a legacy for his family, pushing him to take bold steps to secure their future.

Driven by a desire to build something lasting, Slimane is encouraged by Rym, the daughter of his long-term partner. Rym inspires him to transform an old boat into a family restaurant that will feature his ex-wife Souad's famous fish couscous.

Slimane begins the process of applying for licenses and loans to realize his restaurant dream. His attempts quickly become complicated, as they are met with bureaucratic hurdles that challenge his resolve.

To assist with the renovations of the boat, Slimane enlists the help of his sons. This collaboration not only strengthens family bonds but also serves as a way to unite the family in the face of adversity.

Slimane plans a grand opening dinner party, inviting important bureaucrats who can influence the success of the restaurant. The invitees include his ex-wife Souad, creating an undercurrent of tension due to her relevance in the restaurant's theme.

On the night of the grand opening, Latifa, Slimane’s partner, chooses to stay away from the event due to discomfort over Souad's involvement. Rym, feeling the tension, encourages Latifa to attend, suggesting it would be beneficial for her to assert her presence.

As the tension builds, Souad focuses on preparing the fish couscous for the event. Her dedication to this traditional dish represents her connection to the family and her efforts to contribute meaningfully to the restaurant's opening.

The guests arrive, and the atmosphere is filled with a mix of excitement and anxiety. While the women serve wine and appetizers, discussions around the restaurant's potential impact on the local dining scene begin to circulate.

As the evening unfolds, Slimane's son Majid spots a familiar face in the crowd, leading him to slip away discreetly. This secretive encounter highlights the complexities of family dynamics and personal relationships during a pivotal evening.

Unexpectedly, it is discovered that the couscous is missing, causing panic among the women preparing for the dinner. The realization that Majid has unintentionally taken it with him leads to a desperate need for a quick solution.

Slimane takes to the streets on his motorbike in a frantic search for Souad, the only one who can save the evening by making more couscous. This quest emphasizes his determination and the lengths he is willing to go for his family's future.

After failing to find Souad, Slimane's situation worsens when his motorbike is stolen by local boys. His frustration grows as he tirelessly chases after them, showcasing his desperation amid the evening's chaos.

In the midst of rising tensions among the guests, Rym decides to perform a captivating belly dance to divert attention. Her vibrant performance serves to relieve the crowd's anxiety while also uniting the family through a shared moment of joy.

Just as Slimane collapses in despair, Rym's mother arrives with a fresh pot of couscous. This serendipitous moment symbolizes hope and resilience, perfectly encapsulating Slimane's efforts to create a future for his family amid challenges.