Drama,Romance
France,United Kingdom
Welcome is a 2009 French drama film directed by Philippe Lioret. The film follows the story of Bilal, played by newcomer actor Firat Ayverdi, a 17-year-old boy from Iraq who sets off on an adventure-filled journey across Europe to reunite with his girlfriend Mina, who lives in England.
The film begins with Bilal leaving Iraq and traveling through Turkey and Greece before arriving in France. Bilal's journey is filled with challenges and dangers, including escaping from the police, crossing borders illegally, and facing hostile locals and smugglers.
Upon arriving in Calais, Bilal meets Simon, played by Vincent Lindon, a swimming instructor who is mourning the loss of his wife and son. Simon takes Bilal under his wing and begins coaching him to swim the 32 kilometers of the English Channel to reach England and be reunited with Mina.
However, Bilal soon discovers that his trip won't be as easy as he imagined as he encounters the community of struggling illegal aliens in Calais, living in squalid conditions, desperately trying to find ways to cross the Channel and reach England.
The film tackles the issue of immigration and the difficulties faced by refugees in their quest for a better life and highlights the importance of empathy and understanding towards those who are forced to leave their homes and seek refuge elsewhere.
Welcome was well-received by critics and won several awards, including the César Award for Best Original Screenplay.
