West Beirut

Set in 1975 Beirut, on the eve of the Lebanese Civil War, the film follows Tarek, a teenage boy torn between his burgeoning sexuality and the chaos erupting around him. He navigates teenage life with his best friend, Omar, and their friend, May, a rebellious Christian girl. As the conflict escalates, their youthful pursuits become increasingly fraught with danger.

West Beirut was met with critical acclaim for its poignant and often humorous portrayal of adolescence amidst civil war. Critics lauded its authenticity, performances, and its ability to find moments of levity in a tragic setting. It is widely regarded as a significant film in Lebanese cinema.

• Praised for its honest and nuanced depiction of teenage life during wartime.

• Commended for its effective blend of humor and drama.

• Acclaimed for its authentic portrayal of Beirut and its people.

Google audience: Audience reviews highlight the film's compelling narrative, relatable characters, and its unique ability to capture the spirit of youth in a war-torn city. Many found it to be a moving and thought-provoking cinematic experience.

Screened in the Un Certain Regard section at the 1998 Cannes Film Festival; won awards at various international film festivals including FESPACO and the Cairo International Film Festival.

The film was shot on a very low budget, with many scenes relying on the resourcefulness of the cast and crew to recreate the atmosphere of 1970s Beirut amidst the ongoing conflict in Lebanon.