A new wave of Arabic-language cinema: Exploring ‘Thaoura’ and beyond

A fresh perspective on genre films

In the ever-evolving landscape of cinema, a new wave of Arabic-language films is making its mark. One such film is “Thaoura”, the feature debut of David Arslanian, set against the backdrop of Lebanon’s 2019 public protests during its worst economic crisis since 1850. This film is being prepped by Wrong Films, the same production house behind Sofia Alaoui’s Sundance Jury Prize winner “Animalia.”

Introducing ‘Thaoura’ at Locarno Film Festival

“Thaoura” will be introduced by Mathilde Warisse of Wrong Films to potential partners at the Locarno Film Festival’s Match Me! event, which runs from August 9-11. Arslanian is currently co-writing the screenplay with Thomas Desenne, known for his work on the Arte series “Le Somnambuliste.” The duo previously collaborated on Arslanian’s short film “Underdog” (“Charbon”), which was showcased at Unifrance’s MyFrenchFilmFestival in January.

Wrong Films’ impressive portfolio

Wrong Films has a track record of producing critically acclaimed films. Their portfolio includes “Bolero” by Nans Laborde-Jourdáa, which won a Queer Palm, and Morad Mostafa’s “I Promise You Paradise,” which received the Cannes Festival Nikon Discovery Prize. These films highlight the production house’s commitment to diverse and compelling storytelling.

The rise of David Arslanian

David Arslanian, a French-Lebanese director based in Paris, is an emerging talent in the film industry. His cultural background enriches his storytelling, offering a unique perspective on classic genre premises. Arslanian’s latest short film, “Underdog” (“Charbon”), is a social thriller about a cycle delivery worker racing against time to earn enough money to pay his rent and avoid eviction. This film was well-received at the Krakow Film Festival, where it won a Silver Dragon for best short and the Don Quixote Prize from the International Federation of Cine-Clubs.

‘Thaoura’: A contemporary thriller

“Thaoura” promises to be a gripping contemporary thriller. The film follows Manal, a 48-year-old schoolteacher, on a desperate quest to find medicine for her seriously ill sister amidst Lebanon’s economic crisis. As street protests erupt over a new government tax, Manal is drawn into a spiral of uncontrollable violence to achieve her ends. One particularly intense scene depicts Manal entering a bank in Beirut, armed with a pistol and a jerrycan, to steal her own savings after the government blocks her account.

The significance of ‘Thaoura’

“Thaoura” confronts viewers with the impossible choices people must make when they are desperate. This film, like Arslanian’s previous works, uses genre codes to place marginalized characters at the center of the narrative, highlighting their struggles and aspirations for a better life. This approach has been described as “social cinema narrated with the zest of an action movie.”

The future of Arabic-language cinema

Wrong Films, founded in 2020, has been instrumental in bringing new voices from North Africa and the Middle East to the forefront of the film industry. The production house’s recent projects feature directors with strong ties to these regions, reflecting the rich cultural and social contexts of their stories. This trend underscores the growing recognition of North Africa and the Middle East as exciting regions for new talent and perspectives in cinema.

A personal reflection for cinema enthusiasts

For cinema and TV series enthusiasts, the rise of Arabic-language films like “Thaoura” offers a refreshing and enriching experience. These films provide a window into the diverse cultures and social issues of the Middle East and North Africa, challenging conventional narratives and expanding our understanding of the world. The compelling storytelling and unique perspectives of directors like David Arslanian make these films a must-watch for anyone passionate about cinema.

Explore more

To delve deeper into the world of “Thaoura” and other Arabic-language films, check out the trailers and information sheets available online. For “Thaoura,” visit this link to watch the trailer and learn more about the film.

As the landscape of cinema continues to evolve, the emergence of new voices and perspectives promises to keep audiences engaged and inspired. The journey of discovering these films is as thrilling as the stories they tell, offering a rich tapestry of human experiences and emotions.