Shot in Turkey, the Syrian film is written and directed by Soudade Kaadan.
MAD Solutions has unveiled the official MENA poster for Soudade Kaadan’s Syrian film, Nezouh, ahead of its upcoming commercial release in the Middle East.
The poster showcases Kinda Alloush’s character, Hala, and Samer Al-Masri’s character, Motaz, prominently. In the backdrop, a 14-year-old Zeina, portrayed by Hala Zein, gazes towards the horizon, encapsulating the family’s aspirations for the future. The poster’s setting resembles a starry night, adding a touch of enchantment to the visual composition.
Featuring Alloush, Zein, Al-Masri, and Nizar Alani, Nezouh marked its global debut at the 79th edition of the Venice Film Festival‘s Orizzonti Extra Competition. The film secured the Audience Award presented by Armani Beauty, the festival’s primary sponsor, making it the first Arab film to achieve this honour. Additionally, it earned the Lanterna Magica Award from Cinecircoli Giovanili Socioculturali, completing director Soudade Kaadan’s remarkable accomplishments at Venice, which commenced with her debut film, The Day I Lost My Shadow, receiving the Lion of the Future Award at the Orizzonti Competition.
Shot in Turkey, Nezouh is written and directed by Soudade Kaadan. It’s produced by KAF Productions (Soudade Kaadan) and Berkeley Media Group (Yu-Fai Suen) in association with Ex Nihilo (Marc Bordure).
Set against the backdrop of the Syrian conflict, the film captures the moment when a missile destroys the roof of 14-year-old Zeina’s home. Consequently, she experiences her first night under the open sky, forming a bond with Amer, her neighbour. As the violence intensifies, Hala, Zeina’s mother, takes the decision to leave, sparking a dispute with her husband, Motaz, who vehemently opposes becoming refugees and strives to prevent his family from abandoning their residence.
MAD Solutions is spearheading the film’s distribution in the Arab world, while mk2 films manages its global sales. Additionally, the film secures distribution in France through Pyramide and is supported by financing from FILM4, BFI, and Stars Collective.