For Sama is a heart-wrenching and deeply personal documentary that chronicles the life of Waad al-Kateab, a young Syrian woman, as she navigates the treacherous landscape of war-torn Aleppo. The film is a love letter from Waad to her daughter, Sama, and it is a testament to the enduring power of maternal love in the face of unimaginable adversity. Through Waad's lens, we witness the brutal realities of war, the resilience of the human spirit, and the impossible choices that must be made when survival is at stake. With unflinching honesty, Waad shares her story, from the early days of the uprising to the devastating siege of Aleppo, and it is a story that will leave viewers moved, outraged, and ultimately, hopeful.

The film's greatest strength lies in its intimacy and immediacy, as Waad's camera captures the everyday moments of life in a war zone. We see the joy and laughter of her wedding day, the birth of her daughter, and the quiet moments of domesticity that make life worth living. But we also see the horrors of war: the bombed-out buildings, the wounded civilians, and the constant fear that permeates every aspect of life. Waad's narration is poignant and reflective, as she grapples with the moral complexities of her situation and the impossible choice she must make: to flee the city and protect her daughter's life, or to stay and continue the fight for freedom. The film raises important questions about the human cost of war, the role of women in conflict zones, and the struggle for justice and dignity in the face of overwhelming oppression.

One of the most striking aspects of For Sama is its portrayal of the Syrian uprising as a complex and multifaceted phenomenon. Waad's story is not simply one of victimhood or survival; it is also a story of resistance, activism, and solidarity. We see the ways in which ordinary people, including women and children, become embroiled in the conflict, and the ways in which they find ways to resist, to organize, and to demand justice. The film is a powerful tribute to the courage and resilience of the Syrian people, and it is a testament to the enduring power of human rights and dignity. With its unflinching portrayal of war's devastation and its celebration of the human spirit, For Sama is a film that will stay with viewers long after the credits roll, and it is a must-see for anyone interested in documentary filmmaking, human rights, or the complexities of conflict and resistance.