Taxi Service 1996
In the 1996 short film *Taxi Service*, Lebanese director Elie Khalifé crafts a poignant, thought-provoking drama-comedy that unfolds in just 12 minutes.
Director: Elie Khalifé
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Taxi Service (1996) about?
The film follows Tarek, a taxi driver who takes a passenger to an asylum called *L'Oisellerie*. Struck by the tranquility inside, he soon realizes that leaving isn't as simple as it seems—both for the inmates and himself.
Who directed Taxi Service?
Elie Khalifé directed *Taxi Service*, bringing a unique blend of drama and comedy to this 1996 short film.
Who stars in Taxi Service?
The cast is led by Hamza Nasrallah, who plays the taxi driver Tarek, bringing depth and nuance to the role.
Is Taxi Service (1996) worth watching?
*Taxi Service* may be brief, but its exploration of freedom and confinement packs an emotional punch. While it's unrated, its sharp themes and Khalifé's direction make it a compelling watch for fans of thought-provoking cinema.
How long is Taxi Service?
Taxi Service (1996) runs for 12 minutes.
About Taxi Service (1996) — A 12-Minute Journey into Freedom and Confinement
In the 1996 short film *Taxi Service*, Lebanese director Elie Khalifé crafts a poignant, thought-provoking drama-comedy that unfolds in just 12 minutes. The story follows Tarek, a humble taxi driver who unwittingly becomes entangled in an unexpected detour when he delivers a passenger to *L'Oisellerie*, a serene asylum where the inmates long for the freedom just beyond its walls. As Tarek grapples with the surreal nature of his surroundings, he discovers that escape—both literal and emotional—is far more complex than he imagined. The film masterfully blends sharp social commentary with dry humor, painting a vivid picture of confinement and the universal desire for liberation through its quiet, introspective atmosphere.
Set against the backdrop of Lebanon's cultural landscape, *Taxi Service* (1996) stands out for its concise storytelling and emotional depth. Khalifé's direction and Hamza Nasrallah's compelling performance as Tarek anchor the narrative, exploring themes of freedom, mental health, and the arbitrary boundaries that define our lives. With its minimal runtime yet maximum impact, this short film lingers in the mind long after the credits roll.