Italian
Taskovski Films acquires a poignant documentary on Beirut’s aftermath
A new documentary sheds light on Beirut’s resilience
Taskovski Films Sales has recently acquired the documentary “To Close Your Eyes and See Fire,” directed by Nicola von Leffern and Jakob Carl Sauer. This compelling film is set to make its world premiere at the Zurich Film Festival.
The aftermath of a devastating explosion
The documentary delves into the catastrophic explosion that rocked Beirut, leaving the city in shambles. It explores the collective trauma that emerged in the wake of the disaster and poses a critical question: How can life continue after such a tragedy?
A three-year journey through personal stories
Over the course of three years, the film meticulously follows the lives of several individuals deeply affected by the explosion:
- Aya, a Syrian refugee girl, grapples with her new reality.
- Selim, an activist and painter, channels his grief into his art.
- The Aladdin family mourns a profound loss.
- Yasmin works at a suicide prevention hotline, offering a lifeline to those in despair.
- Andrea remains hopeful, believing in the city’s potential for change.
Amidst these personal narratives, a persistent fire smolders in the port’s silos, serving as a haunting reminder of the tragedy. The film raises a poignant question: Is it time to leave?
Behind the scenes: A collaborative effort
The documentary is a collaborative effort, directed and produced by Jakob Carl Sauer and Nicola von Leffern. They are joined by producers Peter Drössler, Arash T. Riahi, and Sabine Gruber from Golden Girls Filmproduktion.
A powerful message on justice and healing
Irena Taskovski, CEO and head of acquisitions at Taskovski Films, emphasized the documentary’s significance:
“This powerful documentary not only explores the aftermath of the Beirut explosion but also investigates the unresolved questions and lack of accountability that still haunt the city. By highlighting the divide between different social classes and religions, the film reveals how the chance to heal from trauma varies — some can recover, while others are left to cope day by day. This universal message about justice and the unequal struggle to heal makes it an essential acquisition for platforms seeking thought-provoking and impactful films.”
Support and recognition
The film has garnered support from several prestigious institutions, including ORF Film/Fernseh-Abkommen, the Federal Ministry for Arts and Culture (BMKÖS), the City of Vienna – Cultural Department (MA7), and the Screenwriters Forum Vienna/Scriptlab.
A deeper look at the film’s themes
The intersection of art and activism
Selim’s story, as both an activist and painter, highlights the intersection of art and activism. His journey illustrates how creative expression can serve as a powerful tool for processing grief and advocating for change. This theme resonates with broader industry trends, where art is increasingly recognized as a medium for social commentary and healing.
The role of mental health support
Yasmin’s work at a suicide prevention hotline underscores the critical role of mental health support in the aftermath of trauma. The film’s focus on this aspect aligns with growing awareness and advocacy for mental health resources, particularly in communities affected by large-scale disasters.
The enduring spirit of hope
Andrea’s unwavering belief in Beirut’s potential for change embodies the enduring spirit of hope. Her story serves as a testament to the resilience of individuals and communities in the face of adversity. This narrative is particularly relevant in today’s context, where stories of hope and resilience are more important than ever.
Final thoughts
“To Close Your Eyes and See Fire” is not just a documentary; it is a profound exploration of human resilience, justice, and the unequal struggle to heal. By weaving together personal stories with broader social and political themes, the film offers a nuanced and impactful portrayal of Beirut’s journey towards recovery.
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