Here’s a story that’s as captivating as it is heartbreaking: a sweeping romance set against the backdrop of Beirut’s tumultuous history, and the filmmaker behind it is making waves in the industry. But here’s where it gets even more intriguing—Dubai-based management and production company 75East has just signed Lebanese director Cyril Aris, whose debut feature A Sad and Beautiful World is turning heads on the global festival circuit. This isn’t just another film; it’s Lebanon’s official submission for the Best International Feature Film at the 98th Academy Awards, and it’s already snagged the Audience Award at Venice Film Festival’s Giornate degli Autori.
The film, co-written by Aris and Bane Fakih, spans three decades of passion, loss, and hope in Beirut, following star-crossed lovers Nino (Hassan Akil) and Yasmina (Mounia Akl). And this is the part most people miss—their story isn’t just about romance; it’s a profound exploration of love and survival in a country grappling with tragedy. Nino, the eternal optimist, and Yasmina, the impulsive pragmatist, must decide whether to build a life together in Lebanon, a decision that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant.
Produced by a powerhouse team including Georges Schoucair (Abbout Productions), Jennifer Goyne Blake and April Shih (Diversity Hire), and Georg Neubert and Jasper Wiedhöft (Reynard Films), the film has already screened at prestigious festivals in London, Athens, Montpellier, and is set to tour the MENA region this autumn.
Aris is no stranger to storytelling that challenges and moves audiences. His previous work includes the feature documentary Dancing on the Edge of a Volcano (2023), which chronicles the making of Mounia Akl’s Costa Brava, Lebanon in the aftermath of the devastating 2020 Beirut blast. Supported by the Sundance Institute, the documentary premiered at Karlovy Vary, toured over 80 festivals, and won awards from Rotterdam to San Francisco. His debut documentary, The Swing (2018), also premiered at Karlovy Vary and earned international acclaim.
Here’s the controversial part: While Aris’ work is undeniably powerful, it raises questions about the role of art in times of crisis. Does cinema have the power to heal, or does it simply amplify the pain? Aris, a Columbia University MFA graduate and member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, seems to believe in its transformative potential.
Launched in 2023, 75East is quickly becoming a powerhouse in representing global filmmaking talent, particularly from the SWANA (Southwest Asia and North Africa) region and diaspora. Their roster includes heavyweights like BAFTA-winner and Oscar-nominee Bassel Ghandour, Palme d’Or-nominee Abu Bakr Shawky, and Gotham Best Breakthrough Director nominee Mahdi Fleifel.
Aris is also represented by Independent Talent Group, ensuring his voice continues to resonate across borders.
Now, here’s the question for you: In a world where stories of love and loss are abundant, what makes A Sad and Beautiful World stand out? Is it the setting, the characters, or the filmmaker’s unique perspective? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your thoughts!
