Damascus – A film exhibition showcasing twenty works related to the Syrian Revolution is set to open September 15th and run thru September 19th, screening at venues including Canadian halls, the Damascus Opera, the old exhibition, and the National Museum. The event aims to revitalize Syrian cultural discourse following years of conflict and political upheaval.
The initiative raises questions about artistic freedom in post-revolution Syria, contrasting with a previously more permissive environment that allowed for satirical critiques of the former regime. Organizers hope the demonstration won’t be a fleeting period of openness, but rather a sustained dialogue about the boundaries of artistic expression given evolving social norms and governmental structures.
Featured films include “death Announced,” written and directed by Monk Oasis; “Dream,” directed by Muhannad Al-hamoud; ”The Interior is missing, and the Outside is Born,” directed by Walid Al-Madani; “Wamda,” directed by Amr Ali; “Tahdah,” directed by Sahd Kanaan; “Loss,” written and directed by Rami Al-Qassab; and ”The Syrian West,” directed by Nizar.
The demonstration also includes international films focusing on the Syrian Revolution, such as “The Issue of Strangers,” by Brandt Andersen, which received the amnesty International Film Award at the Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale) in Germany.
Intellectuals express hope that the event will foster direct communication and bridge divides that have emerged during the 14 years since the revolution began, moving beyond discussions confined to social media. The eventS success hinges on whether art can address the damage caused by political conflict and war.
