The Blue Caftan

The middle-aged tailor Halim runs a small shop along with his wife Mina. The business is struggling, but Halim works slowly and meticulously, especially with a blue caftan that will turn out to be his most beautiful creation. Besides, Halim has more than financial concerns. He struggles to keep his homosexuality secret from everyone, including Mina. This becomes a complicated task when a handsome young man, Youssef, shows an interest in becoming a tailor’s apprentice – and in the tailor himself.

This leads to a sort of love triangle, but not in the sense that one might expect. Even though the relationship between Youssef and the couple leads to tears and heated confrontations, they eventually develop a tight bond built on love and acceptance. The Blue Caftan is a film that looks for beauty in its characters, and the story is carried by powerful performances from all three lead actors. Finally, the titular caftan takes on a particularly touching significance.