Bye Bye Tiberias

While the film centres on a personal and familial narrative, the context of Palestine is implicitly present due to the characters' origins and the mother's departure. The 'chosen exile' of Hiam Abbass is framed within the broader realities of life in her native village. The film focuses more on the emotional and intergenerational impact of these circumstances on the women of the family rather than offering a direct political commentary.

Australian audiences can anticipate a deeply personal and reflective cinematic experience. 'Bye Bye Tiberias' offers a nuanced exploration of family history, cultural identity, and the universal quest for self-fulfilment, particularly through the lens of women's experiences. It provides a window into the complexities of displacement and the enduring connections to one's roots, making it a compelling watch for those interested in human stories that transcend borders and explore the impact of personal choices across generations.

'Bye Bye Tiberias' is a documentary film. It follows filmmaker Lina Soualem as she accompanies her mother, actress Hiam Abbass, back to their native Palestinian village. The film captures their conversations and reflections as they revisit the past, explore Abbass's decision to leave for a career in Europe, and examine the influence of the women in their family. It blends personal history with broader themes of identity and belonging.

The film intricately weaves together the narratives of multiple generations of women within Hiam Abbass's family. By returning to their native village, filmmaker Lina Soualem engages with her mother, grandmother, and seven sisters, uncovering shared experiences and individual journeys. It highlights how the collective decisions and individual paths of these women have influenced each other's lives, particularly focusing on the impact of Abbass's departure and subsequent life choices on the family dynamic.

Hiam Abbass is a notable actress who, in her early twenties, left her Palestinian village to pursue a career in Europe, a decision that led to a form of chosen exile. Thirty years later, her filmmaker daughter Lina Soualem returns with her to their ancestral home. Abbass's story is significant as it forms the emotional core of the documentary, prompting discussions about ambition, identity, and the difficult choices women make when balancing personal aspirations with familial ties and cultural roots.

At its heart, 'Bye Bye Tiberias' explores the complex relationship between a mother and daughter, delving into the choices that shape lives and families across generations. It examines the sacrifices made for personal dreams, the impact of chosen exile, and the enduring influence of women within a Palestinian family. The film uses the return of filmmaker Lina Soualem to her mother Hiam Abbass's native village as a catalyst to unpack these profound themes, prompting a re-evaluation of past decisions and their ripple effects.