How Can I Explain It, Mother? 1998
How Can I Explain It, Mother? (1998) is a haunting short drama directed by Hassan Zbib that immerses viewers in post-war Beirut through the unsettling lens of a mother reading a chilling letter from her son.
Director: Hassan Zbib
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is How Can I Explain It, Mother? (1998) about?
This short drama unfolds in post-war Beirut, where a mother reads a letter from her son—a sniper—who describes his killings in cold, detached detail without any sign of regret. The film captures the emotional devastation left in war's wake.
Who directed How Can I Explain It, Mother??
Hassan Zbib directed this intense short film, known for his ability to convey raw human emotions through minimalist storytelling.
Who stars in How Can I Explain It, Mother??
The film stars Maryam Zbib-hallal and Hassan Zbib in a gripping portrayal of a mother-son dynamic fractured by war.
Is How Can I Explain It, Mother? (1998) worth watching?
As a 1998 drama, it offers a rare and unflinching look at war's psychological aftermath. Its brevity and intensity make it a compelling watch for fans of thought-provoking cinema, despite its unrated status.
How long is How Can I Explain It, Mother??
How Can I Explain It, Mother? runs for 18 minutes.
About How Can I Explain It, Mother? (1998) — A 18-Minute War Drama That Strips Away Remorse
How Can I Explain It, Mother? (1998) is a haunting short drama directed by Hassan Zbib that immerses viewers in post-war Beirut through the unsettling lens of a mother reading a chilling letter from her son. Set in a fading family home still echoing with memories of a bygone era, the film strips away any pretense of remorse as the son recounts his sniper killings with chilling detachment. Zbib's stark, unflinching approach strips the narrative down to its raw emotional core, forcing audiences to confront the psychological toll of war and the fractured bonds it leaves behind.
This 18-minute cinematic experience is more than just a story—it's a visceral exploration of guilt, detachment, and the unspoken wounds of conflict. With a minimalist yet powerful performance by Maryam Zbib-hallal as the grieving mother and Hassan Zbib's masterful direction, the film lingers in the mind long after the credits roll. It's a stark reminder of how war reshapes humanity, leaving scars that words can barely describe.