20:45 Mon 24th Sept + Q&A
The Lexi and partner Cinema’esque celebrate Arab cinema with a selection of films specially curated by Ali Khalil, a unique presentation of some of the best recent work from Arab filmmakers. 2011 was a year of great unrest and change throughout the Arab world, and the turmoil continues. The determination, creativity and courage of the people who took to the streets in Syria and Egypt impressed the world, with the young people playing a prominent role. This reforming energy informs much of the film coming from the region, which also challenges political and social taboos.
As well as giving a unique perspective on topical issues in the region, the programme presents a wide range of filmmaking approaches. Hailing from Lebanon, Syria and Iraq, the films are diverse: documentary, lyrical feature and experimental. Most are seen for the first time in the UK, including Hazem Al-hamwi’s documentary Stone Bird, a Syrian film about eccentric Abu Hajar, who has chosen the life of a hermit to escape the strictures of a fundamentalist society. The programme of five films is 85 minutes long. Three of the directors will be present for introductions and a Q&A afterwards, and there will also be supporting Film Notes available.
Also showing this week – our unofficial celebration of Mid-Eastern cinema – are award-winning films About Elly and A Separation, from Iranian writer/directer Asghar Farhadi.
