TIFF 2017: The President’s Visit

In a small village in Lebanon, a soap maker toils in his dingy shop. He earns very little respect from the townsfolk, though his service is essential. Then, one day, the President of the country calls him. As part of a new “Clean Up the Country” campaign, he will be visiting the humble shop to buy the finest soaps available in a publicity stunt. The owner is told to keep the visit secret.

Of course, that fails immediately.

First, the soap maker tells his uncle, a local fishmonger. The uncle spreads the word immediately, and takes credit for owning the soap shot, to boot (he doesn’t; but is quick to take advantage of the publicity to hawk his mackerel). Now, ever denizen of the sleepy town is dressed to the nines, ready to impress the president with their sophistication.

Except he doesn’t show. And the soap maker has decided to…