These films not only showcase the diverse storytelling coming out of the Middle East but also offer a window into the region’s complex political landscapes, cultural struggles, and personal triumphs. They highlight a growing movement of Middle Eastern filmmakers whose voices are increasingly being heard and celebrated on the global stage, with Cannes providing the perfect platform for these powerful narratives.
Cannes is more than just a glitzy event—it’s a celebration of cinema’s power to transcend borders and connect us through universal stories. As the Cannes Film Festival gears up for its 2025 edition from May 13 to 24, the spotlight is shining on a particularly exciting development: the growing cinematic universe of the Middle East.
From unflinching dramas to eye-opening documentaries, films from this region are gaining increasing recognition on the global stage. With a rich history of storytelling and a unique lens on both personal and political struggles, these films are capturing the attention of critics and audiences alike. Let’s dive into six films from the Middle East that will leave their mark on Cannes this year.
ONCE UPON A TIME IN GAZA
A gripping revenge thriller set against the turbulent backdrop of Gaza in 2007, this film follows Yahya, a young student who embarks on a path of vengeance after the brutal murder of his friend, Ousama. As the story unfolds, Yahya’s encounter with the killer changes everything, leading him into a world of corruption and moral ambiguity. Directed by Tarzan and Arab Nasser, the film promises intense emotion and social commentary, drawing from the political unrest in the Gaza Strip. After their successful Gaza Mon Amour, the Nasser twins bring another raw and poignant tale to the big screen.
EAGLES OF THE REPUBLIC
The latest political thriller from Tarik Saleh, Eagles of the Republic continues the story from his critically acclaimed The Nile Hilton Incident and Boy from Heaven. This film takes us into the world of a famous actor who finds himself under pressure to star in a state-sponsored propaganda film. As Saleh explores the murky waters of political manipulation and personal integrity, Eagles of the Republic delivers a tense narrative sure to captivate viewers with its sharp insights into power and its complexities.
LA PETITE DERNIÈRE
In this coming-of-age drama, Fatima, a young woman raised in a devout family, leaves her suburban home for the philosophical freedom of Paris. Torn between the traditions she left behind and the allure of her new life, she navigates the complexities of self-discovery and religious tension. La Petite Dernière examines the delicate balance between faith and freedom, offering a glimpse into the internal conflicts that many face when caught between two worlds.
AISHA CAN’T FLY AWAY
This bold and intimate political thriller sheds light on the African migrant experience in Cairo’s Ain-Shams neighborhood, where Aisha, a 26-year-old Somali woman, struggles with the rising tension between local Egyptians and various African nationalities. As gang violence escalates, Aisha faces a moral dilemma when one gang offers her security in exchange for a dangerous favor. Directed by Morad Mostafa, the film’s blend of documentary-style filmmaking and magical realism creates a haunting yet captivating narrative about migration, survival, and resilience in the face of adversity.
PROMISED SKY
Set in Tunisia, Promised Sky tells the story of Marie, an Ivorian pastor, who opens her home to Naney, a young mother, and Jolie, a student carrying the weight of her family’s hopes. Their fragile solidarity is put to the test when a little orphan girl arrives, challenging the trio’s bond in a society that’s struggling with its own tensions. Through the lens of these women’s experiences, Promised Sky explores themes of hope, vulnerability, and the complexities of human connection.
PUT YOUR SOUL ON YOUR HAND & WALK
In this documentary, director Sepideh Farsi captures life in Gaza amidst the ongoing Israeli military campaign. Through video calls with a young woman living in Gaza, Farsi presents a deeply personal and poignant portrayal of survival under constant threat. The film is an emotional exploration of daily life in a war-torn region, offering a raw and intimate perspective on the human cost of conflict. It’s a powerful piece that highlights resilience, loss, and the struggle to maintain humanity in times of crisis.
ALSO READ: BURO’S WEEKEND PLAYBOOK: 5 EXCITING THINGS TO DO IN DUBAI THIS WEEKEND.
