Beirut Dreams
in Color
a film by Michael Collins
Produced by Thoughtful Robot & Guardian Documentaries
In association with Karaaj Films, Bertha Foundation & Birdstreet Productions
For the Guardian: Jess Gormley, Ekaterina Ochagavia & Lindsay Poulton
Executive Producers: Patty Kim, Trevor Burges, Susan Bernsten, Ellen Poss, Abe Rybeck
Co-Producers: Suparna Bhasin & Michael Collins
DOPs: Clarissa de los Reyes, Adrian Hartrick & Benjamin Henretig Graphics: Mathieu Carlot
Music: Andrew Dost
Producers: Marty Syjuco, Sarah Kaskas & James Costa
Produced & Directed by Michael Collins
2022 - Lebanon, UK, US - Arabic & English - 28 min
Featuring:
Tarek Zeidan, Hamed Sinno, Haig Papazian, Sarah Hegazi, Mostafa Fouad
Synopsis:
He’s the openly gay frontman of a Lebanese rock band. She is an ardent activist and fan. After one fateful night, their lives intersect and are altered forever.
Worldwide Release:
Guardian Documentaries - June 2022
Festivals:
Tribeca Film Festival - June 2022
Winner: Kashish Mumbai International Queer Film Festival - June 2022
Inside Out - May 2022
Mountain Film - May 2022
Movies That Matter - April 2022
BFI Flare - London LGBTQIA+ Film Festival - March 2022
Docedge - February 2022
KASHISH JURY STATEMENT:
For its powerful story that focuses on the reality of queer rights in Lebanon & Egypt through the intertwined stories of Masrou’ Leila the popular Lebanese indie rock band, with an openly gay band member; and Sarah Hegaz an Egyptian, lesbian activist & their fan. The Jury lauds the film for its compassionate insight into the three main protagonists, as they face the consequence of speaking up for LGBTQ rights, in societies that penalise & persecute - the loneliness, isolation, exile that befalls all of them, and tragic death for one of them. The jury is moved by the film’s quiet message of hope, that the power of music & rebellion can seep into society & slowly bring change. Hence the award for Best Documentary Short, goes to BEIRUT DREAMS IN COLOUR by Michael Collins
Supported by K.F.Patil Charitable Trust
