MAD Solutions will screen 'Our Ties' and 'Killing Bagheera' at the Iraq festival.
Two entries from MAD Solutions‘ distribution slate, namely Roschdy Zem’s feature film Our Ties and Muschirf Shekh Zeyn’s short film Killing Bagheera, are set to grace the screens of the 10th edition of the Duhok International Film Festival, ongoing until December 16 in Iraq.
Our Ties made its mark with a world premiere at the prestigious 2022 Venice International Film Festival, where it vied for the coveted Golden Lion Grand Prix. Following this, the film celebrated its Arab World premiere at the 44th Cairo International Film Festival’s International Panorama Section. The narrative was later released in French theatres in November 2022.
Directed by Roschdy Zem, who co-wrote the script with the talented French actress Maïwenn, the film introduces audiences to Moussa, a character defined by kindness and selflessness. The plot takes an unexpected turn when an accident leaves Moussa with serious brain damage, causing him to speak unfiltered truths that strain relationships with friends and family, except for his brother Ryad, played by Sami Bouajila.
The star-studded cast also features the likes of Rachid Bouchareb, a recipient of numerous awards from Cannes, Berlin, and Locarno, as well as a César Award. Other notable actors include Meriem Serbah, Abel Jafri, Lila Fernandez, and Nina Zem, making Our Ties a cinematic masterpiece.
On the other end, Killing Bagheera has left an indelible mark on the international film festival circuit. With screenings at nearly 30 prestigious festivals worldwide, the short film has earned a dozen accolades, including Best Short Film at the Biberacher Filmfestspiele, Best Short Film on Refugees at the International Inter-University Short Film Festival, and three awards for short films at the Filmfestival Turkey/Germany.
The narrative of Killing Bagheera delves into the journey of Alan and Bekes, two friends attempting to enter Europe as refugees. Their perilous voyage unveils a myriad of dangers and challenges that put their friendship to the ultimate test, providing audiences with a thought-provoking and emotionally charged viewing experience.