Representing the Middle East and Asian Subcontinent
The prestigious Sundance Film Festival is set to run from January 24 to February 3 in the United States. With a record breaking 14,259 submissions, from 152 countries – here are the five films from the region that will be screened at the festival.
ALSO READ:
Why we love Kuwati-based artist Aidha Badr
Is sampling a cultural theft?
Aziza – Syria/Lebanon
The short film offers a dynamic take on the life of Syrian refugees told through black comedy. Aziza is by Syrian director Soudade Kaadan, who’s first feature fiction film The Day I Lost My Shadow was awarded The Lion of the Future award for best debut film in the 2018 Venice International Film Festival.
Brotherhood – Canada/Tunisia/Qatar/Sweden
The Tunisian film will be screened in the shorts category. The film tells the story of a hardened shepherd’s son who returns home after a long journey with a new wife, with tension rising between father and son. Tunisian American writer/director Meryam Joobeur is currently developing the feature version of this film.
Gaza – Ireland/Canada
This film from the World documentary category tells the story of 17-year-old Karma Khaial. This elegantly shot and masterfully crafted portrait of Palestinian life offers a rare chance to be immersed in the heart of Gaza.
Delhi Crime Story – India
The movie tells the story of when the bloodied but breathing bodies of a young woman and man are found naked in a ditch, and the investigation that follows. It is by acclaimed director Richie Mehta, who’s first feature, Amal (2007), premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival, and won 30 international awards.
Photograph – India
Photograph is the latest work from director Ritesh Batra. The film will premiere at the festival and follows Rafi works as a street photographer in frenzied Mumbai. When his grandmother, who hopes to see him married comes to visit, Rafi scrambles to appease her
Media: Sundance
