5th Edition 10-13 October 2024 SiNEMA TRANSTOPIA
5th Edition 10-13 October 2024 SiNEMA TRANSTOPIA
5th Edition 10-13 October 2024 SiNEMA TRANSTOPIA
5th Edition 10-13 October 2024 SiNEMA TRANSTOPIA
5th Edition 10-13 October 2024 SiNEMA TRANSTOPIA
5th Edition 10-13 October 2024 SiNEMA TRANSTOPIA
Editorial
This past year tested us in ways we could never have foreseen. After our funding was cut abruptly, forcing the cancellation of our 2023 edition, we were faced with a difficult choice: to give in to the challenges, or rise above them. Despite the odds, we chose the latter. With fewer resources but unwavering determination, we are moving forward. This edition is one born of struggle—yet built on the strength of our collective beliefs and sustained by the unshakable support of our community.
We can’t believe we are turning 5 this year and this rightfully is a milestone. We look back at how we started, the ups and the downs, the heartwarming moments, the talents we have hosted, and we can’t help but feel proud of the platform we have built for queer storytelling from the SWANA region. For that matter, one thing we wanted to highlight in this edition is ‘resistance’.
There has been so much injustice and darkness everywhere around the world. But just like Mother Nature has its own little secrets to fight back against its erasure, so do humans, whenever met with oppression. And no celebration is complete without Art, which brings us to the power of storytelling and representation. We are beyond thrilled to be back this year, and we cannot wait to share with you the powerful queer narratives of resistance. See you all at Sinema Transtopia from October 10 to 13.
The Soura Team
Short Film Program 1: Identity and Displacement
Thu, Oct 10, 17:00 – 82 mins
Through intimate and powerful storytelling, these films explore the multifaceted experiences of those navigating personal and societal boundaries. From a closeted Arab wholesale perfume seller to an Egyptian activist living in exile in Berlin, a spirited Lebanese teenager to a transgender woman living in Afghanistan, the stories in this shorts program delve into themes of cultural estrangement, the yearning for escape, and the complexities of gender expression.
Short Film Program 2: Hidden Selves and Liberations
Thu, Oct 10, 21:00 – 63 mins
This collection of films examines facets of self-discovery and liberation, highlighting the tension between personal aspirations and societal expectations. From haunting dramas and comedic tales to stories of repression, these narratives reveal the journeys of individuals breaking free from conventional norms.
Followed by a talk with Omar Abogabal and Aleya
Omar Abogabal is an Egyptian multi-disciplinary filmmaker and photographer based in Berlin.
Short Film Program 3: Displaced Bodies - Focus On Palestine
Fri, Oct 11, 19:00 – 66 mins
The voices of people who deserve to be heard come to life through film. Displaced Bodies portrays the Palestinian experience of identity, love, and resistance vividly. Rooted in true and challenging narratives, we explore the layers of conflict beneath the larger struggles, highlighting the multifaceted lives and stories of Palestinians. The films, though varied in their focus, share a common thread of resilience and an enduring spirit that demands recognition.
Short Film Program 4: Unexpected Encounters
Sat, Oct 12, 19:00 – 72 mins
Followed by a talk with Natascha Nassir-Shahnian & crew and Pamela C. Saade.
The intersection of brief connections and profound transformations are the threads explored here, delving into the delicate dance between intimacy and evolving bodies. Through stories of unexpected bonds and personal metamorphoses, these narratives shed light on the nuanced ways people navigate and redefine their physical and emotional landscapes.
Natascha Nassir-Shahnian is a facilitator, pleasure activist, and filmmaker. She is part of the scriptwriting and directing department at filmArche e.V.
Pamela C. Saade is a Lebanese filmmaker with degrees in film from Pantheon-Sorbonne and Antonine University. She is currently in post-production for her latest film, I No Longer Love My Car
Short Film Program 5: Desire Will Set You Free
Sun, Oct 13, 19:00 – 78 mins
Followed by a talk with Joy Sfeir, Zaher Jureidini, Nancy Naser Al Deen (the cast & crew of Silverfish) and Can Merdan Doğan (The Longest Night)
These films explore the collision of desire and reality, revealing the seductive pull of forbidden passions and unfulfilled yearnings. With a mix of ironic twists and incisive revelations, they examine how lust, love triangles, and hidden truths challenge the boundaries of personal and political freedom.
Beyond Borders - Focus on Central Africa
Sat, Oct 12, 17:00 – 105 mins
Introduced by guest curator Gabriel Bihina Arrahnio
In 2021, we launched this new section to spotlight cinematic works from beyond the SWANA region. This year, we are thrilled to invite Cameroonian-German filmmaker Gabriel Bihina Arrahnio to curate the program, with a special focus on contemporary queer cinema from Central Africa. Additionally, he will present his beautifully crafted and award-winning film, I Was Never Really Here, as part of the program.
As guest curator Gabriel Bihina Arrahnio states, “Given the recent surge of anti-LGBTQIA+ laws in several African countries, it is more crucial than ever to highlight and celebrate African queer cinema. These films not only provide visibility for marginalized voices but also challenge oppressive narratives by sharing authentic stories of love, identity, and resilience. In the face of increasing discrimination, queer cinema becomes a powerful tool for resistance, fostering empathy, and promoting understanding.”
Gabriel Bihina Arrahnio was born in Cameroon and moved to Germany at the age of 13. He worked as a director at the renowned agency Jung von Matt and studied at the Film University Babelsberg KONRAD WOLF. His latest short film, I Was Never Really Here, screened at prestigious festivals like BFI London and Clermont-Ferrand, earning several awards including a 2023 nomination for the German Short Film Award.