Mr. Gay Syria

The film follows Mahmoud Hassino, a hairdresser from Aleppo, Syria, as he pursues his dream of competing in the Mr. Gay Syria beauty pageant. Facing the harsh realities of the Syrian civil war and societal pressures, Mahmoud embarks on a journey to Istanbul to find a life free from persecution. Alongside fellow participants, he navigates the complexities of identity, love, and belonging in exile, seeking a future where he can be his true self.

Mr. Gay Syria has been lauded for its poignant and intimate portrayal of LGBTQ+ individuals in the Syrian diaspora. Critics have praised its courage in shedding light on a marginalized community, highlighting the personal struggles and resilience of its subjects. The documentary offers a vital glimpse into the lives of those forced to flee their homeland due to war and prejudice, earning it a reputation as an important and moving film.

• A brave and moving documentary about the LGBTQ+ Syrian refugee experience.

• Explores themes of identity, love, and the search for acceptance in exile.

• Highlights the resilience and humanity of individuals facing immense adversity.

Google audience: Information on Google user reviews and ratings for this specific documentary is not readily available.

Awarded Best Documentary at the Iris Prize Festival (2017) and featured in numerous international film festivals.

The pageant featured in the film was organized by an exiled Syrian group in Istanbul aiming to create a space for LGBTQ+ Syrians to express themselves and connect.