9 February 2023

Amman, Jordan — Despite being rated as Netflix’s most-watched film for four consecutive weeks in Jordan, the thriller Al Hara (The Alleys) has sparked a great deal of controversy in the country, particularly amongst conservative parliamentarians. 

Some members of parliament have reacted strongly, blasting the film for its use of profane language and its poor representation of Jordanian society. 

Set in a violent neighbourhood in East Amman, Al Hara follows a young couple whose lives are thrown into chaos when they are subjected to a blackmail campaign. 

Following the release of the uncensored version of the film on Netflix early last month, conservative parliamentarian Muhammad Abu Sailik called for an investigation into Jordan’s Royal Film Commission (RFC) for supporting Al Hara, which he said “distorts the public image of Jordanian society”.

Another parliamentarian, Suleiman Abu Yahya, has called to revoke the citizenship of one of the film’s stars, Munther Rayahneh, because the 43-year-old actor defended Al Hara, arguing that it sheds light on a marginalised group in Jordanian society.

The film certainly offers a rare insight into the gritty inner workings of Amman’s gangs and nightlife.