Capernaum (2018)
An up-close and personal look at inequity.
When Jennifer suggested that we review Capernaum on The Strategic Whimsy Experiment, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, other than it was likely to completely wreck me. And the suspicion I had was indeed correct. Capernaum follows the story of a young boy named Zain, who is sentenced to five years in jail for committing a crime. He ends up suing his parents for their neglect — he states that their crime is bringing him into the world.
We first meet Zain during an examination where we learn that he doesn’t have papers, nor does he have a clear birthday. His age isn’t even certain — we estimate that he is twelve years old based on a medical exam, but it’s still not completely clear. In the first few minutes, I was smacked in the face with how privileged I am. Growing up, there was never a question when my birthday was and I always knew how old I was. I remember being offended once when my dad forgot my age — Zain can’t ever be certain of his.
While watching, I found myself being continually overwhelmed at how much I have and how little Zain and Rahil have. I love my one-bedroom apartment that I have all to myself, when the people in the film are living in hovels and cramped conditions. I have more than enough room on my memory foam mattress, while Zain is sleeping on the floor, squished between many siblings. I never have…
