“Capernaum”: A Comprehensive Review from a Family Strengthening, Securing a Friendly and Protective Environment for Children®, and Rights-Based Parenting® Perspective

“Capernaum,” directed by Nadine Labaki, is a powerful and emotionally charged film that tells the story of Zain, a 12-year-old boy living in the slums of Beirut. The film is a raw and unflinching portrayal of a child’s struggle for survival in an environment marked by poverty, neglect, and abuse. Zain’s journey highlights the resilience of children in the face of adversity and raises important questions about parental responsibility and children’s rights. 

Release and Streaming Platforms

“Capernaum” was released in 2018 and received widespread acclaim for its realistic portrayal of the challenges faced by children in poverty. The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, where it won the Jury Prize and was later nominated for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. 

As of now, “Capernaum” is available for streaming on the following platforms:

• Amazon Prime Video
• Netflix (availability may vary by region)
• Hulu (with subscription or add-on)
• Apple TV (for rent or purchase) 

Family Strengthening Perspective

From a family strengthening perspective, “Capernaum” vividly depicts the challenges faced by families living in extreme poverty and the impact of these conditions on family dynamics. Zain’s family is portrayed as being overwhelmed by their circumstances, unable to provide the care and support their children need. This highlights the importance of addressing systemic issues such as poverty, lack of education, and inadequate access to resources to help families thrive. 

The film underscores the need for interventions that strengthen families by providing them with the tools and support necessary to create stable and nurturing environments for their children. This includes access to education, healthcare, and social services that empower families to break the cycle of poverty and neglect. 

Securing a Friendly and Protective Environment for Children® Perspective

“Capernaum” is a stark reminder of the urgent need to secure a friendly and protective environment for children, particularly those living in vulnerable situations. Zain’s story reveals the harsh realities faced by children who are denied their basic rights to safety, education, and care. The film emphasizes the importance of creating environments where children can grow up free from violence, exploitation, and neglect. 

Zain’s journey also highlights the resilience and resourcefulness of children in the face of adversity. Despite his circumstances, he demonstrates a remarkable capacity to adapt and survive, underscoring the importance of supporting children to reach their full potential even in the most challenging situations. 

Rights-Based Parenting® Perspective

From a rights-based parenting perspective, “Capernaum” raises critical questions about parental responsibility and the rights of children. The film challenges traditional notions of parenting by depicting parents who are unable to fulfill their duties due to their circumstances. This brings to light the importance of recognizing children’s rights to be raised in environments that prioritize their well-being and development. 

The film advocates for a parenting approach that respects children’s rights and acknowledges their inherent dignity and worth. It calls for a societal shift towards recognizing and addressing the systemic issues that prevent parents from providing adequate care and support for their children. 

Conclusion

“Capernaum” is a compelling and thought-provoking film that shines a light on the plight of children living in extreme poverty and the systemic issues that contribute to their suffering. From the perspectives of family strengthening, securing a friendly and protective environment for children, and rights-based parenting, the film serves as a call to action for policymakers, communities, and individuals to work towards creating a world where every child has the opportunity to thrive. 

By addressing the root causes of poverty and neglect and advocating for children’s rights, we can build stronger families and communities that support the well-being and development of every child. “Capernaum” is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a reminder of our collective responsibility to protect and empower the most vulnerable among us.