Description

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A compilation of moody short narratives that demonstrate superbly crafted visual storytelling while engaging important socio-political realities of various parts of the Arab World and beyond. From a father who seeks to protect his only daughter from ISIS to an experimental rendering of Gaza’s 2014 Shujaiya massacre: these films are captivating inasmuch as they touch upon pressing issues.

In This Program

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   Abraham

   Ali Kareem Obaid / Iraq, Italy / 2016 / 8 mins

   Set against the backdrop of ISIS’ imposition of the "jizya" or tax on non-Muslims in its territories, a Christian family concocts a plan to protect its only daughter.

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   Fireflies

   Raouf Zaki / Syria, USA / 2017 / 16 mins

   A withdrawn Arab man begins frequenting a Boston café. Eventually, the headwaiter grows increasingly suspicious about the true nature of his visits.

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   Mare Nostrum

   Rana Kazkaz & Anas Khalaf / France, Jordan, Syria / 2016 / 13 mins

   On a Mediterranean shore, a Syrian father makes a decision that puts his daughter's life at risk.

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   One Minute

   Dina Naser / Belgium, Jordan, Palestine / 2015 / 11 mins

   Experimental film that reenacts one family's experience during Gaza's 2014 Shujaiya massacre where dozens died after being given a moment's notice to evacuate before their neighborhood was bombed by the Israeli government.

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   Status Quo

   Marie-Rose Osta / Lebanon / 2016 / 20 mins

   While the Lebanese borders are under constant terrorist attacks, a Beiruti couple battle midnight anxiety.

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   Submarine

   Mounia Akl / Lebanon / 2016 / 20 mins

   In a not-so-distant future, Lebanon’s garbage crisis has reached an apex, with forecasts of acid rain looming in the distance. Set against this backdrop, Hala refuses to evacuate her home, as she clings to whatever remains. Premiered at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival.

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