Sara Ishaq's debut fiction film, The Station, tackles the complexities of life in Yemen through a female-centered narrative, showcasing the resilience of women in a war-torn nation.
Women-Only Gas Station
Set in a women-only gas station, the film highlights the camaraderie and solidarity among women, away from the pressures of religion and politics. The station, run by Layal (Manal Al-Mulaiki), serves as a haven offering not just gasoline but also contraband lingerie and girl talk. The absence of men allows these women a temporary escape from the harsh realities of the civil war.
Shifting Tones and Tensions
The film opens with a masterful tracking shot showing women in traditional dress amidst a soundscape dominated by fighter jets. The station becomes a refuge where women remove their niqabs and political armbands, entering a world of laughter and friendship. This lightness is disrupted by the arrival of Umm Abdallah (Shorooq Mohammed), who demands a fee to prevent Layal's brother Laith from being sent to fight.
Sibling Dynamics
Layal's relationship with her estranged sister Shams (Abeer Mohammed) adds depth to the narrative. Shams, living under opposing forces, must navigate her own losses, including the deaths of their brother Tareq and her husband. The sisters' bond and determination to protect Laith from a similar fate drive the story forward.
Childhood Interrupted
The film also explores the friendship between Laith and Ahmed (Saleh Al-Marshahi), highlighting the challenges faced by boys forced into adulthood too soon. Their natural bond underscores the disrupted world around them, where childhood is stifled by conflict.
The Station concludes with a powerful scene where women use their hijabs to defend their space, challenging perceptions of the garment. Shot in Jordan, the film's natural performances and Amine Berrada's cinematography capture the warmth and tension of the narrative, making Ishaq's long-gestating project a poignant success.
Source: https://variety.com/2026/film/reviews/the-station-review-1236751423/
