AlRawabi School for Girls (2021) s01e01 Episode Script
School Was My Happy Place
1
A NETFLIX ORIGINAL SERIES
PRODUCED BY FILMIZION
[sombre music playing]
[girl 1] School used to be
my favourite place.
I used to love going to school every day.
[indistinct shouting]
[groaning]
[girl 1] I used to have friends,
lots of them.
And life was good.
[indistinct chatter]
[girl 2, echoing] What did you do?
Let's go before somebody sees us!
[girl 1] But not after today.
[distant siren wailing]
[distant yell echoing]
[girl 1] Now
school has turned into a living nightmare.
CREATED BY TIMA SHOMALI AND SHIRIN KAMAL
DIRECTED BY TIMA SHOMALI
[suspenseful music playing]
When I found her, she was unconscious,
so I went to get help.
But there was no one else around.
Or at least, I didn't see anyone.
Maybe there's someone else who saw it all?
[girl] Yeah, what happened to
Mariam was really bad,
and honestly, it's sad.
But I don't really pay attention
to what girls like her are doing.
We've never been that close, to be honest.
She's always thought
she's better than everyone else.
The vibe in here's a little too serious.
[chuckling] Like an action film,
you know? CSI: Rawabi.
Ooh.
Erm
So, why have I been brought in?
Mariam's my best friend.
Actually,
Mariam's my only friend. [sniffles]
I mean, how could anyone do that to her?
I mean, it's just I don't get it.
[horns honking]
[in Arabic] If everyone told the truth ♪
TWO WEEKS EARLIER
A fire would break out in the world ♪
Told the truth ♪
Put the fire out
Shut all the doors down ♪
Some people
Are still living in the past ♪
Living in the past
And none of them have some free time ♪
Even if someone is free ♪
They could work as a judge ♪
For even a judge
Wants the truth to be shown ♪
Go live alone in those deserts ♪
That no one knows about ♪
[horn honking]
Where there is
No home for you or for me ♪
And where
You cannot even find a pack of gum ♪
[Arabic music playing on radio]
[in English] Good morning, Miss Lamia.
- Good morning!
- Hey, tomboy. What's up?
Hey, you.
Look at me when I'm talking to you.
What's your problem, Layan?
You're the problem.
I have a question.
So, when you drag yourself out of bed,
does the masculine look come naturally
or do you have to try really hard?
I'm not sure. But here's a question.
When you get out of bed in the mornings,
I imagine the bitchiness comes naturally,
or do you have to try really hard?
[Miss Lamia] Girls, please.
Sit down.
[chuckling] That was awesome.
[Arabic music playing on bus radio]
[Mariam] Sorry I didn't
come to the cinema last night.
I was doing homework
and didn't realise how late it was.
As usual.
So, how was it? Anything good?
Yeah! I got to see Zac Efron's abs.
His abs are so amazing. Ooh!
Don't worry, I blocked the school numbers
from my mum's mobile phone.
So now, even if they want to call her,
they won't be able to.
Oh, my God, Layan.
You should be a CIA agent.
[both chuckle]
What? Something wrong?
Forget about that.
Show me the outfit
you've chosen for tonight.
Ooh. Going with the sexy look today?
I like it, Layan.
[sighs] Shut it.
So, you ready? It's almost time.
Don't worry. I was born ready.
- So, next stop?
- Next stop.
[light rock music playing]
Why are you stuffing your face?
I mean, seriously, Dina, stop eating.
Sorry.
Like some?
[both laugh]
[girl] Psst.
[Arabic music playing on radio]
Mr Abu Hamdi,
can we please change the station?
Go back to your seat.
Hey, you two,
you need to move. We need your seats.
Move it.
I'm not moving anywhere.
Move it, she said. Or don't you get it?
Back off, will you?
[horn honking]
[brakes squeak]
Come on, ladies, sit down.
Dina, just ignore them.
[gasping]
[Mariam] Oh, Layan, what's wrong with you?
Do as you're told next time.
[indistinct chatter]
[Dina] My uniform is ruined!
[girl] See, Mr Abu Hamdi,
even Miss Lamia
wants us to play another song.
- [Miss Lamia] Settle down!
- Oh, my God, Miss Lamia!
Help, please.
Dina spilled tea and made a mess.
[Dina] Miss, it wasn't me!
[Miss Lamia] Sit down.
And you as well! Sit down!
[school anthem playing]
[in Arabic] We, AlRawabi girls ♪
To the peaks we are soaring ♪
AlRawabi girls ♪
In the horizons we are shining ♪
We are forerunners and innovators ♪
In science we trust ♪
We are promising and inspiring ♪
And we have supreme ethics ♪
We, AlRawabi girls ♪
To the peaks we are soaring ♪
AlRawabi girls ♪
In the horizons we are shining ♪
We, AlRawabi girls ♪
To the peaks we are soaring ♪
In the horizons we are shining ♪
The future, we are building ♪
We're serious and hardworking ♪
Respect and commitment ♪
Have always been our values ♪
[girl in English]
"How I wish I could wake up one day
to find
that my language has finally allowed me
to speak freely of my longing for love"
[girl continues speaking in background]
[Dina] Sorry. Excuse me. Excuse me.
[sighs]
Hi.
So, I guess it didn't work, then?
Are you being serious?
Can you still see it?
Well, erm, a bit, yeah.
Only if you have eyes. [chuckles softly]
I wish those girls
weren't on our bus route.
Who do they think they are,
bossing us around
like they think they're the Mafia.
[Mariam chuckles softly]
- Quiet!
- Sorry.
[principal] Teachers, please begin
the inspection of your students.
Excellent.
Bravo.
- What's in your pocket?
- Miss, it's nothing.
The rules are very clear.
Everyone else seems to know.
Mobile phones are not to be used
during the school day, my child.
- Give it to me.
- I honestly didn't realise.
Hand it over. Come on.
What are you looking at?
[scoffs]
[door opens]
Bitch.
[door closes]
Mariam, let me see Bravo.
Well done!
Dina.
What happened to you?
Miss Abeer, I swear it was an accident.
We were on the bus and the tea
Shh! Go see matron and get a clean shirt.
- Right away.
- All that work for nothing.
Tuck your shirt in.
Yes, ma'am.
Where's Layan?
[girl] She's not here
today, Miss. She's ill.
Yeah, poor Layan, she got the flu.
You should hear her
Okay, okay. I get it. She's ill.
I need a note from her parents.
Of course, Miss.
[Miss Abeer] Let me see. Good.
[Arabic music playing over speakers]
Well, er, why did you choose this place?
This was the only place
that's open this early,
and you told me you were worried
someone might see us together, remember?
Plus, we can relax a bit here.
[woman laughs]
Why are you scared?
Okay, this place is a bit creepy,
but don't be scared.
Come on,
it doesn't matter where we are right now.
What matters is that we're finally
meeting after a month of just texting.
You were definitely worth the wait, Layan.
[glasses clinking]
Hey, you're the one
who refused to come over to mine.
Well, I hope
you don't live in a place like this.
Well, maybe you should
come over and see for yourself.
[chuckles]
[school bell ringing]
FORERUNNERS AND INNOVATORS
[indistinct chatter]
[girls whispering indistinctly]
[Miss Abeer] Good morning, girls.
[girls] Good morning, Miss Abeer.
I'd like you to all meet Noaf.
Noaf has just joined our school
and starting today,
she will be your new classmate.
Starting a new school
in the middle of the year?
Did someone get into trouble?
Tell us, Noaf. Go on.
What's your story?
[Miss Abeer] Ruqayya, that's enough.
Girls, I would like you to welcome Noaf.
Help her out
as much as you can until she settles in.
Mariam, I'd like you to help her
to get up to speed with her schoolwork,
seeing as you are the best prepared.
[scoffs]
[coughing]
[Ruqayya] Nerd.
[Miss Abeer clears throat]
Er, Noaf,
find yourself a seat and sit down.
From tomorrow,
you'll come in wearing school uniform.
And also, these and these,
all of this, I don't want to see it.
Understand?
Sit down.
That's Layan's seat.
Keep moving.
Noaf, Noaf, you can sit here.
[playful music playing]
Hi.
I'm Dina.
Nice to meet you.
[Miss Abeer] Get your things, girls.
We're going to the lab
to continue working on the group project.
[school bell ringing]
[indistinct chatter]
Erm, I am so hungry.
[Mariam] Yeah, me too.
- [Dina] Mum's cooking tonight.
- [Mariam] What's she cooking?
[Dina] Something called shabu.
- It's Korean.
- Shabu? Sounds delicious.
It is. By the way,
you should come round and try it.
- Hello, Mr Abu Hamdi.
- [Mariam] Hello, Mr Abu Hamdi.
[imperceptible]
[Layan] Did anyone suspect anything
or ask why I wasn't there?
Hey, don't worry. We covered for you.
Now tell me everything.
I want to know all the details.
Okay. Well,
he picked me up in his sports car.
- Okay, okay.
- And he bought me a red rose and a card.
- He's so romantic!
- Oh, my God, show me.
Come on, you know
I had to get rid of them, Rania.
I'd be so dead if my brothers found out.
Oh, yeah, there's that.
Anyway, he's so hot and smells so good.
And we even held hands the whole time.
I might see him again on Wednesday.
He even told me to come over to his.
Oh, and he has
a private suite and a swimming pool.
Ow!
- What the hell's your problem?
- [Dina] Shh!
Wow, they must be loaded.
- A sports car and a pool.
- [mouthing]
Well, I don't mind
being a second wife in that case.
[chuckles] Sure. Sharing is caring.
[both chuckle]
[call to prayer]
[Mariam's dad humming softly]
[chuckling]
Do we really have to wait for Mum?
I'm starving. Can't we just start dinner?
[Mariam's dad] There she is.
Right on time, my love.
- I was just about to serve up.
- [Mariam's mum] Go ahead, start.
Just going to get
changed quickly and then I'll be with you.
[Mariam's dad] What more
could you want in a husband?
I did the cooking
and I did it all on my own.
[Mariam's mum chuckles]
Mmm, he did cook all of it.
[Mariam's mum] Lucky me.
Nothing to complain about.
[Mariam's dad] Actually,
I'm the lucky one.
"Hashtag relationship goals."
- Isn't that what you young people say?
- Dad, no, not like that.
What do you mean?
No? Mariam, isn't that right?
Nah.
[Mariam's dad] Mmm.
- God bless my hands.
- [Mariam chuckles]
[acoustic guitar music playing]
[laptop chiming]
Hello.
Hi, how are you?
I'm good, how are things?
Yeah, good.
Hey, I'm gonna add Dina to the call.
No, wait
I was kind of hoping
it could be just us today. That okay?
Mmm, it's just
I feel bad about not telling Dina
that something happened between us.
- Okay, can I say something?
- What?
- I miss you.
- [chuckles softly]
You can say that.
[chuckles]
Did you watch
the new show I told you about?
Seriously, I'm dying
to talk to someone about it.
Not yet.
I was really busy with homework last week.
And I read
the book series, and if I'm honest,
I think books
are always better than the movies.
Nerd!
Yazan, don't call me that.
It's bad enough the girls at school
call me that all the time, and now you?
I was just joking, Mariam.
[Mariam's mum] Mariam! Mariam!
Look, I'm sorry, I have to go.
Mariam, it was just a joke. I promise.
I know, but my mum is calling me.
Speak to you in a bit.
Okay, then.
Don't forget to watch the show.
[sighs]
[contemplative music playing]
[indistinct chatter]
[Mariam] Come on, Dina. Let's go!
- Let's go!
- Come on, Dina. Go, go, go!
- Go, Dina! Come on, come on!
- [coach] You can do it.
- [Mariam] Shoot!
- [coach] Give it a go, Dina!
[Mariam] Shoot!
- You can do it, you can do it.
- [grunts]
Dina down! [sighs]
- Dina, to the bench.
- [Dina] Thank God!
- Layan. Take her place.
- [Dina sighing in relief]
Get up.
[Dina sighs] What time is it?
When is this going to be over?
Now we can play basketball.
[Rania grunts]
- Whoo!
- [coach] Bravo!
Best basket ever.
[chuckles]
[girl] Hey! I'm open, I'm open.
Over here! Pass it to me
[Mariam] Layan, Layan, over here!
Layan, I'm over here!
Layan, I'm open!
- Layan, pass the ball to Mariam.
- Pass it to me!
[coach] Layan,
the field is open. Pass the ball.
[Mariam] Come on, just pass it.
Layan!
[Layan] Huh?
[groans]
[tense music playing]
[blows whistle]
[coach] Not cool, Layan!
Are you okay?
Oh, come on, the ball barely touched her.
To be honest, I don't even
understand where she got hurt.
She's completely flat, back and front!
[all laughing]
Layan, bench.
- I just started playing.
- [coach] Now!
- But, Miss, I don't want to!
- [coach] Bench!
[coach blows whistle]
Come on. Let's keep going.
[suspenseful music playing]
- [showers running]
- [indistinct chatter]
[Rania] Guys, have you
listened to Drake's new song?
Oh, you and your obsession with Drake.
Take my advice
and listen to Adham Nabulsi.
[Rania scoffs]
[laughs] No, definitely not.
So, I can tell you like what you see.
Leave me alone, Layan.
[Layan clicking tongue]
Poor, poor Mariam.
I'm guessing you'll never know
what it feels like to be a real woman.
[chuckles] How could you anyway,
with those two tiny cherries you have?
- I mean, they're barely visible.
- Why are you even wearing a bra?
Do you think that wearing it is
going to make them magically get bigger?
- [laughs]
- Boom.
[Layan] Idiot.
I bet you'd love to know how they feel
seeing as you don't have any of your own.
Well, do you?
Go away.
[Layan] Come on!
Don't be so shy.
We're all girls, Mariam.
Layan, leave me alone.
[gasps]
Mariam! What the hell!
I can't believe you just did that!
You're sick!
Guys, did you just see how she grabbed me?
What, I didn't touch you.
What are you talking about?
Why are you lying, Mariam? We all saw you.
- Why would you do that?
- [girl 1] Why did she do that?
- Why are you even in here, Mariam?
- She's making it all up.
- [Ruqayya] Weirdo.
- Who the hell does that, Mariam?
- She's making it up.
- What do you mean?
You're the one who's lying, Mariam.
We all saw you do it.
You can't lie about it.
There's something wrong with her!
[girl 2] She's so weird.
- [girl 3] Do us a favour, get out.
- [girl 4] Get out, Mariam. Get out!
- [girl 5] Disgusting.
- [girl 6] Yeah, that's not normal.
- Mariam, go away.
- She is a freak. A freak!
[girl 7] She's gross.
[girl 8] Get out of here.
- [girl 9] Yeah, get out of here!
- [girl 10] I saw it.
- What was that?
- She's not normal.
[laughs]
[girls murmuring]
[tense music playing]
[gentle guitar music playing]
[in Arabic]
Come on, let's burn down this city ♪
And build another one
That's more honourable ♪
Let's forget about this time ♪
And dream about a nicer time ♪
Since you have nothing ♪
Then you have nothing to lose ♪
And I'm tired of living with myself ♪
- [girl 1 in English] Beautiful voice.
- [girl 2] It's really amazing.
There you are.
I've been looking everywhere for you.
Oh, erm
Sorry, I meant to
- I hate Layan. I just
- Yeah, well, what else is new?
Okay, but there are
other things we need to talk about.
Mariam, I just heard the hottest gossip.
Apparently,
some complete and utter weirdo
grabbed Layan's boobs.
I can't believe I wasn't there to see it!
Dina, are you being serious?
Is everybody talking about it?
Are you telling me you were there?
Oh, I'm always the one who misses out!
[Dina sighs]
Dina, you can't always
believe everything Layan says, you know?
Mariam, I don't care.
Just tell me, please.
[Layan continues singing in background]
- It was me.
- You?
- But I didn't touch her, Dina.
- What are you saying?
I couldn't do anything.
[sighs] Layan was playing around
with me doing what she always does.
Manipulating people.
[vocalising]
[Dina] Start from the beginning.
But I want to know
everything in full detail.
Dina, are you serious right now?
You're always gossiping about everything.
Can you drop it for once in your life?
[girls cheering and applauding]
[girls laughing]
I heard somebody say
Layan's gonna
sneak off the bus again tomorrow morning.
So I guess
I'm not bringing my morning tea.
Hang on.
Tomorrow, Layan is gonna
sneak off the bus?
I thought you said
that I shouldn't gossip all the time.
- Dina.
- Hmm.
Dina. Hey.
Okay, okay, okay.
I'll tell you everything.
Someone said that Layan is gonna
sneak off the bus tomorrow morning
to go see her boyfriend,
who's at university,
who is, by the way, so fine.
You sure it's tomorrow?
I wish I had a boyfriend.
And if he went to university, even better.
[girl 3] Show us the video.
[laughing]
Actually, he doesn't
have to go to university. Any boy will do.
Even Yazan would do. I don't care.
I don't actually mean
I want to go out with Yazan.
I mean, obviously, we're just friends.
[tense music playing]
I just really want to know what it
feels like to be in a relationship.
PRINCIPAL'S OFFICE - MISS FATEN QADI
Enter.
[door opens]
[Layan] You wanted to see me, Miss Faten?
Sit down, Layan.
Where were you yesterday?
Er
I was at home in bed.
I was ill.
Layan, enough with the games.
I know that you snuck off the bus.
Who said that? Miss Faten, they're lying.
It doesn't matter.
A girl in your class
brought it to my attention.
Why behave like this
when you know the consequences?
And your father,
what would he do if he found out?
He doesn't need to know.
You're right. He doesn't need to know.
Speaking of which,
how is your father doing?
It's been a long time
since we had the pleasure of a visit.
Don't worry, Miss Faten.
I'll mention it to him
when I go home and
Layan!
Don't for one second
think your father's position
means I'll let you get away
with this reckless behaviour again.
Understood?
Yes, Miss. It won't happen again.
Go back to your class.
Some advice
You should really be more careful
with who you trust around here,
because next time,
I won't be as lenient. Is that clear?
Back to class.
Are you sure, Miss Faten?
You're going to let her get away with it?
Just like that?
Her father's an important man
who could ruin the school.
All hell will break loose if he finds out.
We can't risk it.
At least not at the moment, anyway.
[tense music playing]
[Layan] Everyone, out!
Not you, Sumayya. You can stay.
So, tell us what happened.
Miss Faten found out
I snuck off the bus yesterday
and some snitch told her.
What? Who was it?
Is she going to tell your dad?
[Layan] No.
She's not going to.
I managed to sort it out.
Do you think
it could have been that Dania girl?
You did get off at her house.
No, it wasn't her.
She wouldn't do that. She wouldn't dare.
[scoffs] Yeah, you're right.
The other day,
she was so scared she almost wet herself.
[Rania chuckling]
Well, excuse me.
I was just trying to lighten the mood.
Whatever. I don't care who it was.
Leave it to me.
I'll sort this bitch out my way.
Don't worry, Layan.
I'll make her life a living hell.
This time it was okay,
but if it happens again,
I'm totally screwed.
Not to mention that you'll have to say
bye-bye to your dates with Laith.
[exhales]
[grunts]
Do you think whoever
told Miss Faten has something against you?
We've got to find out who.
[toilet flushing]
[Layan] Sumayya, you know
what goes on around here.
You have access to the entire school.
You could help us find out who it was
that ratted me out to Miss Faten.
I have a family to feed, sweetheart.
I'm sorry I don't have time for your
silly little games or your problems.
[Layan] Okay.
I see.
And what if I go
and tell Miss Faten that I saw you smoking
in the bathroom yet again.
But you haven't seen that, have you?
Who's Miss Faten going to believe?
An innocent
and well-behaved AlRawabi girl,
or a caretaker
who can just be replaced at any time?
But I'd hate to see you get fired.
It would be awful,
especially since you have
a family you need to feed and all.
Best not to lose your job.
Oh, yeah. How sad would that be?
[exhales deeply] What do you want from me?
[tense music playing]
MEET ME NEAR THE OLD BUS RIGHT NOW.
- [Layan] Who do you think you are?
- What's going on? Hey!
You snitched on me to Miss Faten!
I don't know what you're talking about.
Are you really gonna lie about it
to my face, huh? You've got some nerve.
Get away from me!
Hey! That's my
[Mariam groans]
- Come here, you stupid bitch!
- [whimpering]
I know it was you who went to Miss Faten.
Are you denying it?
[groaning]
- [grunting]
- [kicks landing]
[kicking continues]
[Mariam whimpering]
If you ever try to stand in my way again,
there will be blood.
And I will destroy you
even if it's the last thing I do!
[Layan grunts]
[ominous music playing]
[Layan gasps]
What did you do?
Let's go before somebody sees us!
Layan!
[Noaf, echoing] Mariam? Mariam, wake up!
Mariam!
Mariam! Mariam! Wake up!
[ambulance siren wailing]
[imperceptible]
Now, has Mariam
done anything
that might have gotten you in trouble?
I don't like what you're implying.
Do you know who my father is?
I don't think he'd be happy to hear
that you're accusing his daughter
of doing such a terrible thing.
[Rania] I already told you,
I was in the toilets.
You were in the bathroom?
At the end of the day?
Yeah, I guess.
I actually remember that day
pretty well because it was
you know,
that time of the month. [chuckles]
Dude, I had my period.
My menstrual cycle.
I mean, surely you know that
all girls get their period once a month?
Anyway, I wasn't
expecting it at all, so I got flustered
and I had to run
to the toilet so I could do
some damage control, you know?
Er
I can, er,
give you more details if you need.
[sighs]
[Ruqayya] I already told you what I know.
If you ask me,
instead of
wasting your time with the wrong girl,
you should be questioning the person
who so "conveniently" found her.
What was she doing there, anyway?
[man] So, can you explain how exactly
you came to find Mariam
lying on the ground unconscious?
And why you were there in the first place?
[mobile phone vibrating]
IF YOU EVEN THINK ABOU
SAYING ANYTHING, YOU'RE NEXT.
[Ruqayya] Come here, you stupid bitch!
[suspenseful music playing]
[Mariam groaning]
[Noaf gasps]
Shit. Oh, shit.
[Mariam groaning]
[Mariam whimpering]
[Layan] If you ever
try to stand in my way again,
there will be blood.
- [gasps]
- What are you doing here on your own?
Nothing, I was just
You better keep your mouth shut,
otherwise you're not gonna
like what happens to you later.
Get me?
Don't worry. I won't say anything.
[Rania] What did you do?
Let's go before somebody sees us!
Layan!
[gasps]
Mariam. Mariam!
Mariam. Mariam.
Mariam.
Wake up, Mariam!
Mariam!
Mariam!
Mariam!
Mariam? Mariam, wake up!
Mariam!
[man] Mariam I know
how difficult this must be for you,
but you need to tell us who did this.
Try to remember.
- [kicks landing]
- [Mariam groaning]
[Layan] If you ever
try to stand in my way again
[man] Mariam?
Mariam?
They
They attacked me from behind.
I don't know who it was.
I I I couldn't see them.
[indistinct murmuring]
What do you think she's going to say?
[door opens]
- [door closes]
- [murmuring stops]
We have asked you all
to come in today with your daughters
to address the act of violence
that unfortunately
happened here this week,
which involved
your fellow classmate, Mariam.
She has been
so badly injured and traumatised,
it has affected
her recollection of the incident.
[man] If anyone
has any information,
I strongly advise that you say so now,
before we take legal action.
Miss Faten, how can you
be certain that one of our girls did this?
Or anyone at the school, for that matter?
Couldn't it have been someone else?
We can be certain,
thanks to security cameras
installed throughout the school.
The footage from these cameras
is what's given us reason
to suspect two girls.
[Miss Faten] Our two most
important values here at AlRawabi School
are accountability and honesty,
as you very well know.
And that is why we have
both agreed to give one last chance
for the girls
who committed this violent act
to tell the truth.
[tense music playing]
[exhales]
Miss Faten.
I guess it's time to tell the truth.
What are you talking about, Layan?
There was an incident
in the changing rooms.
Are you the one
responsible for what happened?
[woman 1] Excuse me?
I will not let you accuse
my daughter of something so horrific.
Ladies, please settle down.
Layan, what happened
in the changing rooms?
Well, after PE,
we all went to get changed,
and I noticed Mariam
staring at me whilst I got changed.
So I said to her, "What are you doing?
Please stop staring at me."
Next thing I know she got closer and
She got closer and
[voice breaking] she grabbed me.
But, Miss, she's lying!
And when I said
I was going to tell the school,
she threatened me.
I didn't know what to do.
I didn't say anything
because I was scared.
I was scared
she was gonna do something worse.
So when she came to me in the courtyard,
I was trying to protect myself.
And then she grabbed me from behind.
I just wanted to push her away, but
she fell and smacked her head.
I didn't mean to. You have to believe me.
I really didn't mean to.
I swear she's lying! She attacked me!
Don't believe her!
Okay, Layan,
was there anyone with you at the time?
No, I was alone.
No! Ruqayya was there with her.
Rania, too, and
That's quite enough!
It is clear to me
this girl harassed my daughter,
so she cannot stay at this school.
She's a bad influence on our daughters.
I agree. I'm worried about my daughter.
You have to do something. [scoffs]
If Layan's father finds out,
God knows how he'll react.
Please calm down, Miss Marwa.
We'll solve this.
My daughter would never do this.
She would never attack anyone like that.
Mariam, tell them
it's not true what they're saying.
[sobbing] That's not what happened! I
[Layan] If you don't believe me,
ask everyone else.
All the girls were there.
[Miss Faten] Girls?
Did any of you witness the incident?
Yes, I did.
I was there.
Yeah, I did as well.
Well, of course they'll say that.
They're Layan's best friends.
Mariam would never do something like that.
[Miss Faten] Dina, were you there?
I mean, no, but
No one else
is standing up saying they saw it,
right?
I saw it.
I saw it as well.
Yeah. I saw it as well.
[suspenseful music playing]
[Ruqayya] To be honest
Mariam always looks at us weirdly
when we're in the changing rooms.
That's not what happened! I swear!
It wasn't on purpose!
She pushed me and She pushed me and I
I I bumped into her!
But it was her who pushed me!
You're the one who beat me up!
You're the one who did this!
Come on, let's go.
No! No! No!
Let me finish, please.
They're only doing this because I told
Miss Faten what Layan's planning on
Mariam
I think we've heard
enough of the matter, don't you?
The girls have confirmed the incident.
It would be best if you went home.
And as of now,
you are suspended for two weeks.
Then we'll discuss
the next steps with your parents.
[crying]
[Mariam's mum] Excuse me.
Come on.
Come on, let's go.
Noaf! You were there! Tell them!
[sobbing]
- Noaf!
- Come on.
[woman 2] I don't want her
anywhere near my daughter.
[Miss Marwa] Layan,
why didn't you tell me right away?
She shouldn't be allowed to stay
at this school for one second longer!
[door opening]
[door slams]
[Mariam's dad] What's wrong, Laila?
Mariam?
[Mariam crying]
What's the matter, sweetie? Hey.
[tense music playing]
Mum, what are you doing?
I was always very lenient with you.
And I gave you
far more freedom than I ever had!
And this is how you repay me?
[Mariam] What are you looking for?
Mum, what are you looking for?
Mum, stop it!
Mum, please, just stop!
What are you doing?
Mum, please stop. I'm begging you.
Believe me.
A room full of your classmates
all agreeing that they saw the same thing,
and you want me to believe you?
[Mariam's dad] What's going on?
- What's wrong, my love? What's
- Ask your daughter.
What's the matter, Mariam?
Tell me, what's all this? What's going on?
Your daughter has brought
shame to all of us! That's what!
Laila.
Mariam.
[Laila crying]
[sombre music playing]
It's okay. It's okay.
Come on.
[sobbing]
[gentle xylophone music playing]
[in Arabic]
I couldn't find a place to go ♪
And close my eyes ♪
I couldn't find one friend
Who knew how to answer me ♪
I couldn't find a wave
To take me far away ♪
Far away! ♪
I couldn't find the words to say
To express that I am confused ♪
I couldn't find something that explains
Explains the meaning of what's happening ♪
I couldn't find a single melody ♪
That shatters
Shatters mankind's rancour ♪
I couldn't find my folk
I couldn't find my family ♪
I couldn't find relief
I couldn't find joy ♪
I couldn't find my way
I couldn't find my path ♪
I couldn't find my folk
I couldn't find my family ♪
I couldn't find relief
I couldn't find joy ♪
I couldn't find my way
I couldn't find my path ♪
[vocalising]
A NETFLIX ORIGINAL SERIES
PRODUCED BY FILMIZION
[sombre music playing]
[girl 1] School used to be
my favourite place.
I used to love going to school every day.
[indistinct shouting]
[groaning]
[girl 1] I used to have friends,
lots of them.
And life was good.
[indistinct chatter]
[girl 2, echoing] What did you do?
Let's go before somebody sees us!
[girl 1] But not after today.
[distant siren wailing]
[distant yell echoing]
[girl 1] Now
school has turned into a living nightmare.
CREATED BY TIMA SHOMALI AND SHIRIN KAMAL
DIRECTED BY TIMA SHOMALI
[suspenseful music playing]
When I found her, she was unconscious,
so I went to get help.
But there was no one else around.
Or at least, I didn't see anyone.
Maybe there's someone else who saw it all?
[girl] Yeah, what happened to
Mariam was really bad,
and honestly, it's sad.
But I don't really pay attention
to what girls like her are doing.
We've never been that close, to be honest.
She's always thought
she's better than everyone else.
The vibe in here's a little too serious.
[chuckling] Like an action film,
you know? CSI: Rawabi.
Ooh.
Erm
So, why have I been brought in?
Mariam's my best friend.
Actually,
Mariam's my only friend. [sniffles]
I mean, how could anyone do that to her?
I mean, it's just I don't get it.
[horns honking]
[in Arabic] If everyone told the truth ♪
TWO WEEKS EARLIER
A fire would break out in the world ♪
Told the truth ♪
Put the fire out
Shut all the doors down ♪
Some people
Are still living in the past ♪
Living in the past
And none of them have some free time ♪
Even if someone is free ♪
They could work as a judge ♪
For even a judge
Wants the truth to be shown ♪
Go live alone in those deserts ♪
That no one knows about ♪
[horn honking]
Where there is
No home for you or for me ♪
And where
You cannot even find a pack of gum ♪
[Arabic music playing on radio]
[in English] Good morning, Miss Lamia.
- Good morning!
- Hey, tomboy. What's up?
Hey, you.
Look at me when I'm talking to you.
What's your problem, Layan?
You're the problem.
I have a question.
So, when you drag yourself out of bed,
does the masculine look come naturally
or do you have to try really hard?
I'm not sure. But here's a question.
When you get out of bed in the mornings,
I imagine the bitchiness comes naturally,
or do you have to try really hard?
[Miss Lamia] Girls, please.
Sit down.
[chuckling] That was awesome.
[Arabic music playing on bus radio]
[Mariam] Sorry I didn't
come to the cinema last night.
I was doing homework
and didn't realise how late it was.
As usual.
So, how was it? Anything good?
Yeah! I got to see Zac Efron's abs.
His abs are so amazing. Ooh!
Don't worry, I blocked the school numbers
from my mum's mobile phone.
So now, even if they want to call her,
they won't be able to.
Oh, my God, Layan.
You should be a CIA agent.
[both chuckle]
What? Something wrong?
Forget about that.
Show me the outfit
you've chosen for tonight.
Ooh. Going with the sexy look today?
I like it, Layan.
[sighs] Shut it.
So, you ready? It's almost time.
Don't worry. I was born ready.
- So, next stop?
- Next stop.
[light rock music playing]
Why are you stuffing your face?
I mean, seriously, Dina, stop eating.
Sorry.
Like some?
[both laugh]
[girl] Psst.
[Arabic music playing on radio]
Mr Abu Hamdi,
can we please change the station?
Go back to your seat.
Hey, you two,
you need to move. We need your seats.
Move it.
I'm not moving anywhere.
Move it, she said. Or don't you get it?
Back off, will you?
[horn honking]
[brakes squeak]
Come on, ladies, sit down.
Dina, just ignore them.
[gasping]
[Mariam] Oh, Layan, what's wrong with you?
Do as you're told next time.
[indistinct chatter]
[Dina] My uniform is ruined!
[girl] See, Mr Abu Hamdi,
even Miss Lamia
wants us to play another song.
- [Miss Lamia] Settle down!
- Oh, my God, Miss Lamia!
Help, please.
Dina spilled tea and made a mess.
[Dina] Miss, it wasn't me!
[Miss Lamia] Sit down.
And you as well! Sit down!
[school anthem playing]
[in Arabic] We, AlRawabi girls ♪
To the peaks we are soaring ♪
AlRawabi girls ♪
In the horizons we are shining ♪
We are forerunners and innovators ♪
In science we trust ♪
We are promising and inspiring ♪
And we have supreme ethics ♪
We, AlRawabi girls ♪
To the peaks we are soaring ♪
AlRawabi girls ♪
In the horizons we are shining ♪
We, AlRawabi girls ♪
To the peaks we are soaring ♪
In the horizons we are shining ♪
The future, we are building ♪
We're serious and hardworking ♪
Respect and commitment ♪
Have always been our values ♪
[girl in English]
"How I wish I could wake up one day
to find
that my language has finally allowed me
to speak freely of my longing for love"
[girl continues speaking in background]
[Dina] Sorry. Excuse me. Excuse me.
[sighs]
Hi.
So, I guess it didn't work, then?
Are you being serious?
Can you still see it?
Well, erm, a bit, yeah.
Only if you have eyes. [chuckles softly]
I wish those girls
weren't on our bus route.
Who do they think they are,
bossing us around
like they think they're the Mafia.
[Mariam chuckles softly]
- Quiet!
- Sorry.
[principal] Teachers, please begin
the inspection of your students.
Excellent.
Bravo.
- What's in your pocket?
- Miss, it's nothing.
The rules are very clear.
Everyone else seems to know.
Mobile phones are not to be used
during the school day, my child.
- Give it to me.
- I honestly didn't realise.
Hand it over. Come on.
What are you looking at?
[scoffs]
[door opens]
Bitch.
[door closes]
Mariam, let me see Bravo.
Well done!
Dina.
What happened to you?
Miss Abeer, I swear it was an accident.
We were on the bus and the tea
Shh! Go see matron and get a clean shirt.
- Right away.
- All that work for nothing.
Tuck your shirt in.
Yes, ma'am.
Where's Layan?
[girl] She's not here
today, Miss. She's ill.
Yeah, poor Layan, she got the flu.
You should hear her
Okay, okay. I get it. She's ill.
I need a note from her parents.
Of course, Miss.
[Miss Abeer] Let me see. Good.
[Arabic music playing over speakers]
Well, er, why did you choose this place?
This was the only place
that's open this early,
and you told me you were worried
someone might see us together, remember?
Plus, we can relax a bit here.
[woman laughs]
Why are you scared?
Okay, this place is a bit creepy,
but don't be scared.
Come on,
it doesn't matter where we are right now.
What matters is that we're finally
meeting after a month of just texting.
You were definitely worth the wait, Layan.
[glasses clinking]
Hey, you're the one
who refused to come over to mine.
Well, I hope
you don't live in a place like this.
Well, maybe you should
come over and see for yourself.
[chuckles]
[school bell ringing]
FORERUNNERS AND INNOVATORS
[indistinct chatter]
[girls whispering indistinctly]
[Miss Abeer] Good morning, girls.
[girls] Good morning, Miss Abeer.
I'd like you to all meet Noaf.
Noaf has just joined our school
and starting today,
she will be your new classmate.
Starting a new school
in the middle of the year?
Did someone get into trouble?
Tell us, Noaf. Go on.
What's your story?
[Miss Abeer] Ruqayya, that's enough.
Girls, I would like you to welcome Noaf.
Help her out
as much as you can until she settles in.
Mariam, I'd like you to help her
to get up to speed with her schoolwork,
seeing as you are the best prepared.
[scoffs]
[coughing]
[Ruqayya] Nerd.
[Miss Abeer clears throat]
Er, Noaf,
find yourself a seat and sit down.
From tomorrow,
you'll come in wearing school uniform.
And also, these and these,
all of this, I don't want to see it.
Understand?
Sit down.
That's Layan's seat.
Keep moving.
Noaf, Noaf, you can sit here.
[playful music playing]
Hi.
I'm Dina.
Nice to meet you.
[Miss Abeer] Get your things, girls.
We're going to the lab
to continue working on the group project.
[school bell ringing]
[indistinct chatter]
Erm, I am so hungry.
[Mariam] Yeah, me too.
- [Dina] Mum's cooking tonight.
- [Mariam] What's she cooking?
[Dina] Something called shabu.
- It's Korean.
- Shabu? Sounds delicious.
It is. By the way,
you should come round and try it.
- Hello, Mr Abu Hamdi.
- [Mariam] Hello, Mr Abu Hamdi.
[imperceptible]
[Layan] Did anyone suspect anything
or ask why I wasn't there?
Hey, don't worry. We covered for you.
Now tell me everything.
I want to know all the details.
Okay. Well,
he picked me up in his sports car.
- Okay, okay.
- And he bought me a red rose and a card.
- He's so romantic!
- Oh, my God, show me.
Come on, you know
I had to get rid of them, Rania.
I'd be so dead if my brothers found out.
Oh, yeah, there's that.
Anyway, he's so hot and smells so good.
And we even held hands the whole time.
I might see him again on Wednesday.
He even told me to come over to his.
Oh, and he has
a private suite and a swimming pool.
Ow!
- What the hell's your problem?
- [Dina] Shh!
Wow, they must be loaded.
- A sports car and a pool.
- [mouthing]
Well, I don't mind
being a second wife in that case.
[chuckles] Sure. Sharing is caring.
[both chuckle]
[call to prayer]
[Mariam's dad humming softly]
[chuckling]
Do we really have to wait for Mum?
I'm starving. Can't we just start dinner?
[Mariam's dad] There she is.
Right on time, my love.
- I was just about to serve up.
- [Mariam's mum] Go ahead, start.
Just going to get
changed quickly and then I'll be with you.
[Mariam's dad] What more
could you want in a husband?
I did the cooking
and I did it all on my own.
[Mariam's mum chuckles]
Mmm, he did cook all of it.
[Mariam's mum] Lucky me.
Nothing to complain about.
[Mariam's dad] Actually,
I'm the lucky one.
"Hashtag relationship goals."
- Isn't that what you young people say?
- Dad, no, not like that.
What do you mean?
No? Mariam, isn't that right?
Nah.
[Mariam's dad] Mmm.
- God bless my hands.
- [Mariam chuckles]
[acoustic guitar music playing]
[laptop chiming]
Hello.
Hi, how are you?
I'm good, how are things?
Yeah, good.
Hey, I'm gonna add Dina to the call.
No, wait
I was kind of hoping
it could be just us today. That okay?
Mmm, it's just
I feel bad about not telling Dina
that something happened between us.
- Okay, can I say something?
- What?
- I miss you.
- [chuckles softly]
You can say that.
[chuckles]
Did you watch
the new show I told you about?
Seriously, I'm dying
to talk to someone about it.
Not yet.
I was really busy with homework last week.
And I read
the book series, and if I'm honest,
I think books
are always better than the movies.
Nerd!
Yazan, don't call me that.
It's bad enough the girls at school
call me that all the time, and now you?
I was just joking, Mariam.
[Mariam's mum] Mariam! Mariam!
Look, I'm sorry, I have to go.
Mariam, it was just a joke. I promise.
I know, but my mum is calling me.
Speak to you in a bit.
Okay, then.
Don't forget to watch the show.
[sighs]
[contemplative music playing]
[indistinct chatter]
[Mariam] Come on, Dina. Let's go!
- Let's go!
- Come on, Dina. Go, go, go!
- Go, Dina! Come on, come on!
- [coach] You can do it.
- [Mariam] Shoot!
- [coach] Give it a go, Dina!
[Mariam] Shoot!
- You can do it, you can do it.
- [grunts]
Dina down! [sighs]
- Dina, to the bench.
- [Dina] Thank God!
- Layan. Take her place.
- [Dina sighing in relief]
Get up.
[Dina sighs] What time is it?
When is this going to be over?
Now we can play basketball.
[Rania grunts]
- Whoo!
- [coach] Bravo!
Best basket ever.
[chuckles]
[girl] Hey! I'm open, I'm open.
Over here! Pass it to me
[Mariam] Layan, Layan, over here!
Layan, I'm over here!
Layan, I'm open!
- Layan, pass the ball to Mariam.
- Pass it to me!
[coach] Layan,
the field is open. Pass the ball.
[Mariam] Come on, just pass it.
Layan!
[Layan] Huh?
[groans]
[tense music playing]
[blows whistle]
[coach] Not cool, Layan!
Are you okay?
Oh, come on, the ball barely touched her.
To be honest, I don't even
understand where she got hurt.
She's completely flat, back and front!
[all laughing]
Layan, bench.
- I just started playing.
- [coach] Now!
- But, Miss, I don't want to!
- [coach] Bench!
[coach blows whistle]
Come on. Let's keep going.
[suspenseful music playing]
- [showers running]
- [indistinct chatter]
[Rania] Guys, have you
listened to Drake's new song?
Oh, you and your obsession with Drake.
Take my advice
and listen to Adham Nabulsi.
[Rania scoffs]
[laughs] No, definitely not.
So, I can tell you like what you see.
Leave me alone, Layan.
[Layan clicking tongue]
Poor, poor Mariam.
I'm guessing you'll never know
what it feels like to be a real woman.
[chuckles] How could you anyway,
with those two tiny cherries you have?
- I mean, they're barely visible.
- Why are you even wearing a bra?
Do you think that wearing it is
going to make them magically get bigger?
- [laughs]
- Boom.
[Layan] Idiot.
I bet you'd love to know how they feel
seeing as you don't have any of your own.
Well, do you?
Go away.
[Layan] Come on!
Don't be so shy.
We're all girls, Mariam.
Layan, leave me alone.
[gasps]
Mariam! What the hell!
I can't believe you just did that!
You're sick!
Guys, did you just see how she grabbed me?
What, I didn't touch you.
What are you talking about?
Why are you lying, Mariam? We all saw you.
- Why would you do that?
- [girl 1] Why did she do that?
- Why are you even in here, Mariam?
- She's making it all up.
- [Ruqayya] Weirdo.
- Who the hell does that, Mariam?
- She's making it up.
- What do you mean?
You're the one who's lying, Mariam.
We all saw you do it.
You can't lie about it.
There's something wrong with her!
[girl 2] She's so weird.
- [girl 3] Do us a favour, get out.
- [girl 4] Get out, Mariam. Get out!
- [girl 5] Disgusting.
- [girl 6] Yeah, that's not normal.
- Mariam, go away.
- She is a freak. A freak!
[girl 7] She's gross.
[girl 8] Get out of here.
- [girl 9] Yeah, get out of here!
- [girl 10] I saw it.
- What was that?
- She's not normal.
[laughs]
[girls murmuring]
[tense music playing]
[gentle guitar music playing]
[in Arabic]
Come on, let's burn down this city ♪
And build another one
That's more honourable ♪
Let's forget about this time ♪
And dream about a nicer time ♪
Since you have nothing ♪
Then you have nothing to lose ♪
And I'm tired of living with myself ♪
- [girl 1 in English] Beautiful voice.
- [girl 2] It's really amazing.
There you are.
I've been looking everywhere for you.
Oh, erm
Sorry, I meant to
- I hate Layan. I just
- Yeah, well, what else is new?
Okay, but there are
other things we need to talk about.
Mariam, I just heard the hottest gossip.
Apparently,
some complete and utter weirdo
grabbed Layan's boobs.
I can't believe I wasn't there to see it!
Dina, are you being serious?
Is everybody talking about it?
Are you telling me you were there?
Oh, I'm always the one who misses out!
[Dina sighs]
Dina, you can't always
believe everything Layan says, you know?
Mariam, I don't care.
Just tell me, please.
[Layan continues singing in background]
- It was me.
- You?
- But I didn't touch her, Dina.
- What are you saying?
I couldn't do anything.
[sighs] Layan was playing around
with me doing what she always does.
Manipulating people.
[vocalising]
[Dina] Start from the beginning.
But I want to know
everything in full detail.
Dina, are you serious right now?
You're always gossiping about everything.
Can you drop it for once in your life?
[girls cheering and applauding]
[girls laughing]
I heard somebody say
Layan's gonna
sneak off the bus again tomorrow morning.
So I guess
I'm not bringing my morning tea.
Hang on.
Tomorrow, Layan is gonna
sneak off the bus?
I thought you said
that I shouldn't gossip all the time.
- Dina.
- Hmm.
Dina. Hey.
Okay, okay, okay.
I'll tell you everything.
Someone said that Layan is gonna
sneak off the bus tomorrow morning
to go see her boyfriend,
who's at university,
who is, by the way, so fine.
You sure it's tomorrow?
I wish I had a boyfriend.
And if he went to university, even better.
[girl 3] Show us the video.
[laughing]
Actually, he doesn't
have to go to university. Any boy will do.
Even Yazan would do. I don't care.
I don't actually mean
I want to go out with Yazan.
I mean, obviously, we're just friends.
[tense music playing]
I just really want to know what it
feels like to be in a relationship.
PRINCIPAL'S OFFICE - MISS FATEN QADI
Enter.
[door opens]
[Layan] You wanted to see me, Miss Faten?
Sit down, Layan.
Where were you yesterday?
Er
I was at home in bed.
I was ill.
Layan, enough with the games.
I know that you snuck off the bus.
Who said that? Miss Faten, they're lying.
It doesn't matter.
A girl in your class
brought it to my attention.
Why behave like this
when you know the consequences?
And your father,
what would he do if he found out?
He doesn't need to know.
You're right. He doesn't need to know.
Speaking of which,
how is your father doing?
It's been a long time
since we had the pleasure of a visit.
Don't worry, Miss Faten.
I'll mention it to him
when I go home and
Layan!
Don't for one second
think your father's position
means I'll let you get away
with this reckless behaviour again.
Understood?
Yes, Miss. It won't happen again.
Go back to your class.
Some advice
You should really be more careful
with who you trust around here,
because next time,
I won't be as lenient. Is that clear?
Back to class.
Are you sure, Miss Faten?
You're going to let her get away with it?
Just like that?
Her father's an important man
who could ruin the school.
All hell will break loose if he finds out.
We can't risk it.
At least not at the moment, anyway.
[tense music playing]
[Layan] Everyone, out!
Not you, Sumayya. You can stay.
So, tell us what happened.
Miss Faten found out
I snuck off the bus yesterday
and some snitch told her.
What? Who was it?
Is she going to tell your dad?
[Layan] No.
She's not going to.
I managed to sort it out.
Do you think
it could have been that Dania girl?
You did get off at her house.
No, it wasn't her.
She wouldn't do that. She wouldn't dare.
[scoffs] Yeah, you're right.
The other day,
she was so scared she almost wet herself.
[Rania chuckling]
Well, excuse me.
I was just trying to lighten the mood.
Whatever. I don't care who it was.
Leave it to me.
I'll sort this bitch out my way.
Don't worry, Layan.
I'll make her life a living hell.
This time it was okay,
but if it happens again,
I'm totally screwed.
Not to mention that you'll have to say
bye-bye to your dates with Laith.
[exhales]
[grunts]
Do you think whoever
told Miss Faten has something against you?
We've got to find out who.
[toilet flushing]
[Layan] Sumayya, you know
what goes on around here.
You have access to the entire school.
You could help us find out who it was
that ratted me out to Miss Faten.
I have a family to feed, sweetheart.
I'm sorry I don't have time for your
silly little games or your problems.
[Layan] Okay.
I see.
And what if I go
and tell Miss Faten that I saw you smoking
in the bathroom yet again.
But you haven't seen that, have you?
Who's Miss Faten going to believe?
An innocent
and well-behaved AlRawabi girl,
or a caretaker
who can just be replaced at any time?
But I'd hate to see you get fired.
It would be awful,
especially since you have
a family you need to feed and all.
Best not to lose your job.
Oh, yeah. How sad would that be?
[exhales deeply] What do you want from me?
[tense music playing]
MEET ME NEAR THE OLD BUS RIGHT NOW.
- [Layan] Who do you think you are?
- What's going on? Hey!
You snitched on me to Miss Faten!
I don't know what you're talking about.
Are you really gonna lie about it
to my face, huh? You've got some nerve.
Get away from me!
Hey! That's my
[Mariam groans]
- Come here, you stupid bitch!
- [whimpering]
I know it was you who went to Miss Faten.
Are you denying it?
[groaning]
- [grunting]
- [kicks landing]
[kicking continues]
[Mariam whimpering]
If you ever try to stand in my way again,
there will be blood.
And I will destroy you
even if it's the last thing I do!
[Layan grunts]
[ominous music playing]
[Layan gasps]
What did you do?
Let's go before somebody sees us!
Layan!
[Noaf, echoing] Mariam? Mariam, wake up!
Mariam!
Mariam! Mariam! Wake up!
[ambulance siren wailing]
[imperceptible]
Now, has Mariam
done anything
that might have gotten you in trouble?
I don't like what you're implying.
Do you know who my father is?
I don't think he'd be happy to hear
that you're accusing his daughter
of doing such a terrible thing.
[Rania] I already told you,
I was in the toilets.
You were in the bathroom?
At the end of the day?
Yeah, I guess.
I actually remember that day
pretty well because it was
you know,
that time of the month. [chuckles]
Dude, I had my period.
My menstrual cycle.
I mean, surely you know that
all girls get their period once a month?
Anyway, I wasn't
expecting it at all, so I got flustered
and I had to run
to the toilet so I could do
some damage control, you know?
Er
I can, er,
give you more details if you need.
[sighs]
[Ruqayya] I already told you what I know.
If you ask me,
instead of
wasting your time with the wrong girl,
you should be questioning the person
who so "conveniently" found her.
What was she doing there, anyway?
[man] So, can you explain how exactly
you came to find Mariam
lying on the ground unconscious?
And why you were there in the first place?
[mobile phone vibrating]
IF YOU EVEN THINK ABOU
SAYING ANYTHING, YOU'RE NEXT.
[Ruqayya] Come here, you stupid bitch!
[suspenseful music playing]
[Mariam groaning]
[Noaf gasps]
Shit. Oh, shit.
[Mariam groaning]
[Mariam whimpering]
[Layan] If you ever
try to stand in my way again,
there will be blood.
- [gasps]
- What are you doing here on your own?
Nothing, I was just
You better keep your mouth shut,
otherwise you're not gonna
like what happens to you later.
Get me?
Don't worry. I won't say anything.
[Rania] What did you do?
Let's go before somebody sees us!
Layan!
[gasps]
Mariam. Mariam!
Mariam. Mariam.
Mariam.
Wake up, Mariam!
Mariam!
Mariam!
Mariam!
Mariam? Mariam, wake up!
Mariam!
[man] Mariam I know
how difficult this must be for you,
but you need to tell us who did this.
Try to remember.
- [kicks landing]
- [Mariam groaning]
[Layan] If you ever
try to stand in my way again
[man] Mariam?
Mariam?
They
They attacked me from behind.
I don't know who it was.
I I I couldn't see them.
[indistinct murmuring]
What do you think she's going to say?
[door opens]
- [door closes]
- [murmuring stops]
We have asked you all
to come in today with your daughters
to address the act of violence
that unfortunately
happened here this week,
which involved
your fellow classmate, Mariam.
She has been
so badly injured and traumatised,
it has affected
her recollection of the incident.
[man] If anyone
has any information,
I strongly advise that you say so now,
before we take legal action.
Miss Faten, how can you
be certain that one of our girls did this?
Or anyone at the school, for that matter?
Couldn't it have been someone else?
We can be certain,
thanks to security cameras
installed throughout the school.
The footage from these cameras
is what's given us reason
to suspect two girls.
[Miss Faten] Our two most
important values here at AlRawabi School
are accountability and honesty,
as you very well know.
And that is why we have
both agreed to give one last chance
for the girls
who committed this violent act
to tell the truth.
[tense music playing]
[exhales]
Miss Faten.
I guess it's time to tell the truth.
What are you talking about, Layan?
There was an incident
in the changing rooms.
Are you the one
responsible for what happened?
[woman 1] Excuse me?
I will not let you accuse
my daughter of something so horrific.
Ladies, please settle down.
Layan, what happened
in the changing rooms?
Well, after PE,
we all went to get changed,
and I noticed Mariam
staring at me whilst I got changed.
So I said to her, "What are you doing?
Please stop staring at me."
Next thing I know she got closer and
She got closer and
[voice breaking] she grabbed me.
But, Miss, she's lying!
And when I said
I was going to tell the school,
she threatened me.
I didn't know what to do.
I didn't say anything
because I was scared.
I was scared
she was gonna do something worse.
So when she came to me in the courtyard,
I was trying to protect myself.
And then she grabbed me from behind.
I just wanted to push her away, but
she fell and smacked her head.
I didn't mean to. You have to believe me.
I really didn't mean to.
I swear she's lying! She attacked me!
Don't believe her!
Okay, Layan,
was there anyone with you at the time?
No, I was alone.
No! Ruqayya was there with her.
Rania, too, and
That's quite enough!
It is clear to me
this girl harassed my daughter,
so she cannot stay at this school.
She's a bad influence on our daughters.
I agree. I'm worried about my daughter.
You have to do something. [scoffs]
If Layan's father finds out,
God knows how he'll react.
Please calm down, Miss Marwa.
We'll solve this.
My daughter would never do this.
She would never attack anyone like that.
Mariam, tell them
it's not true what they're saying.
[sobbing] That's not what happened! I
[Layan] If you don't believe me,
ask everyone else.
All the girls were there.
[Miss Faten] Girls?
Did any of you witness the incident?
Yes, I did.
I was there.
Yeah, I did as well.
Well, of course they'll say that.
They're Layan's best friends.
Mariam would never do something like that.
[Miss Faten] Dina, were you there?
I mean, no, but
No one else
is standing up saying they saw it,
right?
I saw it.
I saw it as well.
Yeah. I saw it as well.
[suspenseful music playing]
[Ruqayya] To be honest
Mariam always looks at us weirdly
when we're in the changing rooms.
That's not what happened! I swear!
It wasn't on purpose!
She pushed me and She pushed me and I
I I bumped into her!
But it was her who pushed me!
You're the one who beat me up!
You're the one who did this!
Come on, let's go.
No! No! No!
Let me finish, please.
They're only doing this because I told
Miss Faten what Layan's planning on
Mariam
I think we've heard
enough of the matter, don't you?
The girls have confirmed the incident.
It would be best if you went home.
And as of now,
you are suspended for two weeks.
Then we'll discuss
the next steps with your parents.
[crying]
[Mariam's mum] Excuse me.
Come on.
Come on, let's go.
Noaf! You were there! Tell them!
[sobbing]
- Noaf!
- Come on.
[woman 2] I don't want her
anywhere near my daughter.
[Miss Marwa] Layan,
why didn't you tell me right away?
She shouldn't be allowed to stay
at this school for one second longer!
[door opening]
[door slams]
[Mariam's dad] What's wrong, Laila?
Mariam?
[Mariam crying]
What's the matter, sweetie? Hey.
[tense music playing]
Mum, what are you doing?
I was always very lenient with you.
And I gave you
far more freedom than I ever had!
And this is how you repay me?
[Mariam] What are you looking for?
Mum, what are you looking for?
Mum, stop it!
Mum, please, just stop!
What are you doing?
Mum, please stop. I'm begging you.
Believe me.
A room full of your classmates
all agreeing that they saw the same thing,
and you want me to believe you?
[Mariam's dad] What's going on?
- What's wrong, my love? What's
- Ask your daughter.
What's the matter, Mariam?
Tell me, what's all this? What's going on?
Your daughter has brought
shame to all of us! That's what!
Laila.
Mariam.
[Laila crying]
[sombre music playing]
It's okay. It's okay.
Come on.
[sobbing]
[gentle xylophone music playing]
[in Arabic]
I couldn't find a place to go ♪
And close my eyes ♪
I couldn't find one friend
Who knew how to answer me ♪
I couldn't find a wave
To take me far away ♪
Far away! ♪
I couldn't find the words to say
To express that I am confused ♪
I couldn't find something that explains
Explains the meaning of what's happening ♪
I couldn't find a single melody ♪
That shatters
Shatters mankind's rancour ♪
I couldn't find my folk
I couldn't find my family ♪
I couldn't find relief
I couldn't find joy ♪
I couldn't find my way
I couldn't find my path ♪
I couldn't find my folk
I couldn't find my family ♪
I couldn't find relief
I couldn't find joy ♪
I couldn't find my way
I couldn't find my path ♪
[vocalising]