The psychological thriller explores themes of mental health, the role of big pharma, and the dynamics of a father-daughter relationship in modern Lebanon.
Lebanese film Farah, directed by Hassiba Freiha and Kenton Oxley, will release on Netflix tomorrow, December 8, 2022.
A project of Knockout Productions, Intuitive Features and MAD Solutions, Farah is set in Lebanon and stars Stephanie Atala alongside Majdi Machmouchi.
The new psychological thriller explores themes of mental health, the role of big pharma, and the dynamics of a father-daughter relationship in modern Lebanon. The plot revolves around a pre-med student, Lina, who starts experiencing severe recurring nightmares, causing her to return home to Lebanon; a decision that sets her on a path to uncover a web of family secrets and ultimately a shattering truth. Farah puts a spotlight on the power of mind and body while delivering a cinematic journey depicting a collision between the modern Arab world and the region’s long-standing traditions.
Farah brings together a new generation of cast and crew shining alongside established household names. Stephanie Atala plays the role of ‘Lina’, the protagonist in Farah and performs a track in the film alongside UK music icon Boy George. Joining Stephanie in the role of Lina’s father is Lebanese powerhouse, Majdi Machmouchi, known for his roles in Esmoha La, In the Shadows of the City and Max w Antar alongside a range of notable television roles. The duo come together to depict a story that sheds light on Lebanon’s cultural revolution while posing challenging questions about inter-generational dynamics. Additional cast members include Nader Abd Alhay, Youssef Boulos, Pierrette Katrib, Janah Fakhoury, Josyane Boulos, Assaad Rechdan and Emirati director and writer, Hassiba Freiha herself.
Since its world premiere at the Beirut International Women Film Festival earlier this year, Farah has received a range of international accolades. After it was selected for the New York-based Chelsea Film Festival, Farah won the festival’s Special 10th Anniversary Award for Best Feature Film. Additionally, the film also won two awards at this year’s Alexandria Mediterranean Film Festival, Egypt, under the Best Arabic Film and the Best Art Direction categories. Lebanese Film Festival Canada also awarded Farah its Best Feature Film Award (audience poll) for 2022.
