**Arab Cinema Takes Center Stage at Cannes 2025: A New Era of Storytelling**
The 2025 Cannes Film Festival has become a landmark moment for Arab cinema, showcasing a diverse array of films from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. From politically charged thrillers to intimate personal narratives, Arab filmmakers are redefining global cinema with compelling stories and unique perspectives.
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Notable Arab Films at Cannes 2025
1. Once Upon a Time in Gaza
Directed by Palestinian twin brothers Tarzan and Arab Nasser, this gripping thriller is set in 2007 Gaza. It follows Yahya, a student, and his unexpected friendship with Ousama, a warm-hearted dealer, during the rise of Hamas. The film is featured in the 'Un Certain Regard' section, highlighting its unique storytelling .
Egyptian director Morad Mostafa presents his debut feature, focusing on Aisha, a 26-year-old African immigrant navigating life in a tense Cairo neighborhood. The film sheds light on racial and social struggles through a minimalist lens, marking Egypt's return to 'Un Certain Regard' after nine years .
3. Eagles of the Republic
Competing for the prestigious 'Palme d'Or', this political thriller by Egyptian-Swedish director Tarik Saleh follows George El-Nawabi, an actor entangled in governmental power plays. The film is a reflection on fame, resistance, and control .
Tunisian director Erige Sehiri brings forth a poignant drama about Marie, a 40-year-old Ivorian pastor facing rising tensions against sub-Saharan migrants in Tunisia. The film opens the 'Un Certain Regard' section, emphasizing its significance .
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Arab Cinema Centre's Four-Day Programme
The Arab Cinema Centre (ACC) returns to Cannes with a comprehensive four-day programme from May 15 to 18, 2025. In partnership with the Marché du Film, the ACC aims to spotlight the diversity of Arab cinema through industry panels, award ceremonies, and discussions. Key events include the Critics Awards for Arab Films and the Arab Cinema Personality of the Year ceremony .
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Thematic Diversity and Global Collaborations
This year's Arab films at Cannes explore a range of themes:
Political Turmoil and Resistance: Films like *Once Upon a Time in Gaza* and *Eagles of the Republic* delve into the complexities of political landscapes and personal resistance.
Migration and Identity: *Aisha Can't Fly Away* and *Promised Sky* address the challenges faced by migrants and the quest for identity in foreign lands.
Gender and Social Norms: *Inshallah a Boy* by Jordanian director Amjad Al Rasheed portrays a widow's struggle against patriarchal inheritance laws, highlighting women's rights issues .
These films often result from international co-productions, reflecting a collaborative effort to bring Arab stories to a global audience.
🎭 A New Chapter for Arab Cinema
The prominence of Arab films at Cannes 2025 signifies a shift in global cinema, where stories from the Arab world are not only included but celebrated. As Arab filmmakers continue to break barriers and challenge narratives, they pave the way for a more inclusive and diverse cinematic landscape.
*For more insights into the Arab films making waves at Cannes 2025, visit [Esquire Middle East]
Reviewed by Jewellery Designs
on
May 15, 2025
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