Blind Sun is a tense and atmospheric thriller from 2015 that tells the story of a Greek immigrant who finds himself trapped in a desertlike urban environment in the middle of a heat wave. The film is directed by Joyce A. Nashawati and features a cast of talented actors, including Ziad Bakri, Mimi Denissi, and Louis-Do de Lencquesaing.
The movie opens on Ashraf, a Syrian refugee who has recently arrived in Greece seeking asylum. He is hired as a gardener and handyman by a wealthy family living in a sprawling villa on the outskirts of town. The house is located in a barren, almost apocalyptic landscape that is scorching hot and devoid of any signs of life.
As Ashraf goes about his business, performing various odd jobs around the property, he notices that he is being closely watched. He is followed by the family's daughter, Maria, who is curious about him and clearly finds him attractive. Meanwhile, the gardener also begins to suspect that someone else is keeping an eye on him. He is spooked by a series of strange occurrences, including mysterious sounds and a car that seems to be following him whenever he ventures out into the blazing sun.
As the days go by, tensions begin to mount. Ashraf becomes increasingly paranoid, convinced that someone is out to get him. He begins to see threats everywhere, and his sense of disorientation is compounded by the relentless heat and the oppressive, featureless landscape. At the same time, Maria becomes bolder and more flirtatious, and Ashraf finds himself struggling to resist her advances.
Ultimately, the situation spirals out of control, and the gardener finds himself embroiled in a deadly game of cat and mouse that leaves him fighting for his life.
Blind Sun is a visually stunning film that effectively conveys the sense of dislocation, disorientation, and steadily building tension that Ashraf experiences. The film's stark, otherworldly setting is a character all its own, contributing to the overall sense of unease and paranoia that permeates the story.
The film is anchored by strong performances from its leads, particularly Ziad Bakri, who portrays Ashraf with a mix of vulnerability, defiance, and mounting desperation. Mimi Denissi is also excellent as Maria, imbuing her character with a seductive, almost predatory quality that keeps the audience guessing about her true motives.
One of the film's strongest aspects is its use of sound and music to create a haunting, oppressive atmosphere. The scorching heat is almost palpable, and the sound of buzzing flies, rustling leaves, and distant sirens all contribute to a sense of impending doom.
In conclusion, Blind Sun is a gripping, unsettling thriller that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats. With its strong performances, evocative visuals, and skillful use of sound, the film effectively conveys the sense of alienation and danger that its protagonist experiences as he navigates a strange and unforgiving world.