ATHEL
Salma, a widely known presenter, is filming a poetry show about Tarfa, the pre-Islamic poet. With a sand storm disrupting the episode shoot and Salma’s son being lost for days, the presenter remains calm. Perhaps too calm, her mind distantly quiet, the loud crew then drives off forgetting her at the location. On her phone, busy talking, Salma is walking and something far from reality is about to occur.
Directed by Alyazia Bint Nahyan Al Nahyan, the captivating film not only seized global attention at film festivals worldwide but also garnered four prestigious awards, a testament to its compelling storytelling and cinematic excellence. Known for her previous successes with documentaries like "The Tainted Veil" (as a producer) and "Nanny Culture" (as a writer), Al Nahyan has once again proven her prowess in filmmaking. The film, showcased at Dubai's Expo 2020 within the women's pavilion section, transported audiences back to the enchanting era of Arabic poetry and the vast beauty of the desert. Through Al Nahyan's lens, viewers experienced a mesmerizing journey, delving into the rich cultural tapestry of the region, while simultaneously exploring the timeless themes of poetry and the allure of the desert landscape.