“This inhuman world has to become more humane. But how?”
A version of that quote, attributed to the playwright Friedrich Dürrenmatt, opens “In the Land of Pomegranates,” and its question hangs over each scene. Everyone interviewed in this sobering documentary — Israeli or Palestinian — agrees that something must be done to stop the bloodshed in their land. But even talking about solutions proves problematic.
The film centers on “Vacation From War,” a retreat in Germany that brings together young Israelis and Palestinians. They live and travel together for a few weeks, often gathering for discussion and debate in the hope of fostering tolerance.
Intercut with excerpts from their meetings is bloody footage of violent encounters in Israel and the occupied territories and conversations with a handful of residents, including a bus passenger who was severely injured in a suicide bombing attack and a Palestinian mother whose ailing child is being treated by an Israeli physician.
Like several recent films on Israel, including “Wrestling Jerusalem” and “Rabin in His Own Words,” “In the Land of Pomegranates” holds no illusions about a quick end to the conflicts there. Hava Kohav Beller, the director, avoids false optimism and feel-good moments. Though the young people she interviews at least attempt to speak with one other, their rage runs deep, and few find common ground with those who hold opposing views.
“Our goal is not to make people love each other,” says Mohammad, an organizer of the retreat. “If only five of the 60 participants from each side experience a change, I would be happy.” For him and for Ms. Beller, hope is tempered and expectations are restrained. They and the others deliver a tough and cleareyed look at how things are, rather than how we want them to be.
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