In the Middle: Women Documenting Struggles
This short series explores themes of identity, memory, displacement, and resilience through compelling narratives that bridge Francophone and perspectives from the Middle East and North Africa. Centered around the experiences of three young female artists and directors, the films provide timely reflections on the personal and collective struggles for belonging and continuity in Palestine, Iraq, France, and Sudan. Through this program, we aim to examine how these themes are portrayed in times of upheaval and transition, while fostering meaningful conversations about these vital issues.
Produced by Maison Française and co-sponsored by the Center for Palestine Studies, MESAAS and Middle East Institute at Columbia University.
Curated by Emi Schlosser, Thomas Dodman, and Fanny Guex.
Screenings are free and open to the public. RSVP required.
Program
February 14 – Bye Bye Tiberias (Bye bye Tibériade)
Lina Soualem, 2023, 82 min. In French and Palestinian Arabic with English Subtitles
Screening followed by a Q&A with Director Lina Soualem and Thomas Dodman
Register here
March 6 – Sudan, Remember Us (Soudan, souviens-toi)
Hind Meddeb, 2024, 76 min. In Arabic and English with English Subtitles
Screening followed by a Q&A with Director Hind Meddeb and Thomas Dodman
Register here
March 27 – From Abdul To Leila
Leila Albayaty, 2024, 92 min. In Arabic, English and French with English Subtitles
US Première. Film introduced by Emi Schlosser
Register here
The Columbia campus is currently open only to Columbia-affiliated guests (with a CUID). Outside guests who register to attend a public event will be allowed to enter campus for the event if we provide their names and emails to Public Safety the day before. Please be sure to register for any events at least 48 hours ahead of time and you will get an email from [email protected] with a unique QR code giving you access to the campus. Don't forget to bring your ID with you.