In a groundbreaking move, 75East, a Dubai-based powerhouse, has signed the rising Lebanese director Cyril Aris, whose debut feature film is already making waves in the industry. But here's the twist: Aris' film, 'A Sad and Beautiful World,' is not just another romantic tale.
The movie, which won the Audience Award at the prestigious Venice Film Festival's Giornate degli Autori, captivates audiences with its epic romance spanning three decades of Beirut's history. It follows the complex love story of Nino and Yasmina, played by Hassan Akil and Mounia Akl, as they navigate passion, loss, and hope against the backdrop of Lebanon's turbulent past. And this is where it gets controversial—the film boldly confronts the choice between love and survival in a country marred by tragedy.
Aris, a Columbia University MFA graduate, is no stranger to impactful storytelling. His previous works include the feature documentary 'Dancing on the Edge of a Volcano,' which explored the aftermath of the devastating 2020 Beirut blast. This film premiered at Karlovy Vary and embarked on a global festival tour, winning numerous awards. And that's not all; his debut documentary, 'The Swing,' also made waves at Karlovy Vary and garnered international acclaim.
75East, founded in 2023, is dedicated to representing exceptional filmmakers from around the world, particularly those from the SWANA region. Among their talented roster are renowned directors Bassel Ghandour, Abu Bakr Shawky, and Mahdi Fleifel. With Aris joining their ranks, 75East continues to foster diverse and thought-provoking cinema.
As Aris' career soars, one can't help but wonder: What impact will his unique perspective have on the global film industry? Will his bold storytelling choices spark conversations about love and resilience in the face of adversity? The audience awaits with bated breath as this talented director's journey unfolds.
