Movie Review: “Three” – A Compelling Exploration of Faith, Science, Mental Health and Islam.

“Three” is a gripping psychological thriller directed by Nayla Al Khaja, a groundbreaking figure as the first female screenwriter, director, and producer in the United Arab Emirates.

At its core, the film delves into the tumultuous journey of a young boy, Ahmed, whose descent into a mental health crisis propels his mother, Maryam, to seek assistance from an unlikely source. 

The story it tells revolves around Ahmed, a 12-year-old boy who is the son of Maryam (played by Faten Ahmed), a successful single Muslim woman. Initially, their lives seem tranquil and prosperous, with Maryam thriving in her business and career pursuits. However, their peaceful home and lives are disrupted when Ahmed begins exhibiting peculiar behaviour. He develops a stutter and voices complaints about hearing strange voices. As time progresses, his condition deteriorates, marked by unexplained bouts of aggression, culminating in alarming incidents where he assaults both a classmate and a teacher.

Following Ahmed‘s hospital visits, it’s suspected that Ahmed’s issues could be neurologically related. Dr. Mark Holly (played by Jefferson Hall), becomes deeply invested in Ahmed‘s case, providing ongoing consultations and suggesting treatment options for Maryam. However, despite their efforts, the situation worsens.

Maryam‘s sister, Noora, firmly believes that Ahmed‘s condition transcends mere health issues and suspects that he may be possessed by ‘Djinns‘. Despite initial scepticism, Noora persuades Maryam that seeking spiritual guidance is imperative. Together, they consult a Mullah in hopes of exorcising whatever entity may be afflicting Ahmed, thus safeguarding their lives from further danger.

The storytelling in this film is skilful, immersing viewers in a gripping narrative that sets the stage for a compelling and intense clash between religion and science.

To many, “Three” may appear as just another film revolving around possessions and exorcisms. However, it transcends these themes, offering layers of depth and complexity. For instance, the film challenges various stereotypes, notably through the character of Maryam, a divorced Muslim woman. She is depicted as fiercely dedicated to being a nurturing mother, determined to provide her child with the best possible life. Throughout the narrative, pivotal scenes prompt questioning of her faith and her standing within the Muslim community, as she encounters scepticism from religious leaders.

Saud Alzarooni as Ahmed in Three (2023)

Ahmed, portrayed with remarkable proficiency by Saud Alzarooni, anchors the film with his nuanced portrayal of a troubled young boy grappling with inner turmoil. Alzarooni‘s performance is nothing short of mesmerizing, capturing the essence of Ahmed‘s struggles and vulnerabilities with authenticity and depth. He undoubtedly shines as the star of the film, and his performance and contribution are integral to its success. He’s on the right path to becoming a distinguished actor.

Jefferson Hall also delivers a standout performance as Dr. Mark Holly, a Western medical practitioner tasked with navigating the delicate balance between science and faith. Hall‘s portrayal of the character shows clearly the palpable sense of conflict and empathy, as Dr Holly grapples with his own beliefs while endeavouring to aid Ahmed and his family.

Supporting performances, including Faten Ahmed as Maryam and Noura Alabed as Noora, further elevate the film with an additional sense of authenticity and relatability. 

These two characters offer a poignant portrayal of familial bonds and resilience in the face of adversity. For instance, the character Noora, Ahmed‘s aunt, is a character is highly relatable. She embodies the archetype of caring family members who, albeit well-meaning, may sometimes overstep boundaries without considering the consequences. However, ultimately, their actions stem from genuine intentions.

She shares writing credits with Ben Williams and John Collee. However, the film authentically reflects Emirati traditions and the way of life rooted in the Islamic faith. The dialogue for instance is predominantly in Arabic with English subtitles, the film also incorporates minimal dialogue in English.

Faten Ahmed as Maryam in Three (2023)

Also, the film’s production values, from cinematography to sound design, are exemplary, creating an immersive viewing experience that resonates long after the credits roll.

While watching this film, I experienced genuine moments where a cold shiver ran down my spine or I felt occasional goosebumps. Remarkably, the film achieves this effect without relying on typical jump scares or gratuitous gore that is typical of similar-themed films.

This film is a skillfully executed cinematic masterpiece from the UAE. Beyond its religious themes, “Three” prompts meaningful conversations about mental health and the intersection of faith and science. It navigates these complex topics with finesse, eschewing simplistic narratives in favour of nuanced exploration. The film’s ability to provoke introspection and dialogue is a testament to its narrative depth and emotional resonance.

“Three” is a must-watch cinematic gem that transcends genre conventions, offering a thought-provoking journey into the depths of the human psyche. 

With its stellar performances, deft direction, and thematic richness, it earns a well-deserved score of 8/10 and stands as a testament to the power of storytelling to provoke, inspire, and challenge our perceptions.

This is the kind of film you might overlook or initially lack interest in, but it manages to surprise you with its creative and intense storytelling, as well as its overall impressive aesthetic.