Moon Review: The Dubai Thriller That Packs a Proper Punch

Right, let’s get one thing straight – if you’re expecting another white saviour swooping in to rescue damsels in distress, you’re in for a shock. ‘Moon’, the latest knockout from Iraqi-Austrian director Kurdwin Ayub, is having none of that nonsense. Instead, we’re treated to something far more complex and compelling – a claustrophobic thriller that’ll leave you proper rattled.

From Cage Fighter to Reluctant Witness

Remember when Conor McGregor made that awkward pivot to coaching? Well, Sarah’s career change makes that look like a breeze. Played with raw intensity by Florentina Holzinger, our protagonist is an ex-MMA fighter whose glory days are behind her. She’s about as good at small talk as a brick wall, which makes her new gig teaching three privileged sisters in Dubai all the more fascinating.

When That Dubai Dream Job Goes Sideways

The moment Sarah signs that NDA, you just know things are going to get proper sketchy. “Anything you see inside the house stays inside the house” – if that’s not setting off alarm bells, I don’t know what will. The whole setup bears an uncomfortable resemblance to Princess Haya’s story (you know, the one who legged it to London from Dubai in 2019), but Ayub’s film isn’t interested in simple parallels.

Three Sisters, Zero Freedom

The sisters’ situation is proper grim – no wifi, constant surveillance, and home-schooling that’s less about education and more about control. When one of them asks to learn self-defence against choking, it’s enough to make your blood run cold. But here’s where the film gets really interesting – these girls aren’t just waiting around for someone to save them.

FAQ: Your Moon Questions Answered

Is Moon based on a true story?

While the film draws inspiration from real events like Princess Haya’s escape from Dubai, it’s a work of fiction that explores similar themes of control and resistance.

What makes Moon different from other rescue narratives?

Unlike typical white saviour films, Moon focuses on the complexity of the situation, avoiding easy solutions and challenging audience expectations about heroism and agency.

Who gives the standout performance?

Florentina Holzinger’s physical, nuanced portrayal of Sarah steals the show, bringing raw authenticity to the role of the conflicted ex-fighter.

The Verdict

Moon isn’t just another thriller – it’s a proper thought-provoking piece that’ll have you questioning everything you think you know about power, privilege, and resistance. It’s about as subtle as a roundhouse kick to the face, but in the best possible way. Whether you’re into intense dramas or just fancy something that’ll make you think, this one’s worth every minute of your time.

Share your thoughts below – would you have the bottle to stand up against injustice, even if it meant risking everything? And while you’re here, check out our interview with Kurdwin Ayub about bringing this powerful story to the screen.