The Goat proves the power of international collaboration through co-production between Egypt's Agora Media Production, France's Domedo Productions, Italy's Orange Media, Lebanon's Cedars Art Production, and the U.S. company Pantheon Entertainment.
Directed by the multi-talented Italian filmmaker Ilaria Borelli, the film features a star-studded cast from all around the globe, from renowned international actors Mira Sorvino and John Savage to homegrown Egyptian talents like Amr Saad, Sayed Ragab, and Jessica Hossam El Din.
A Journey Through the Desert
The Goat follows Hadia, an 11-year-old girl portrayed by the emerging star Jessica Hossam El Din. Hadia lives in a village where a Western corporation searches for control over their only water source. The company go through inhuman measures to achieve its goal.
This compels Hadia to embark on a daring journey into the unforgiving desert, accompanied by an unlikely companion: her Goat. In her pursuit to save her village's water spring and find her father, she faces numerous turns and tribulations, bringing to light the harsh realities of our cruel world.
Exploring Barbaric Traditions
The Goat not only tackles issues of corporate greed but delves into the exploration of barbaric traditions still prevalent in various corners of the world. Through the lens of Hadia's story, the film sheds light on practices such as marriage by abduction, gang rape, and the challenges faced by women in societies bound by oppressive customs. Ilaria Borelli's film is a call to action, urging viewers to question societal norms and recognize the importance of preserving dignity, especially among women.
Ilaria Borelli's Crusade for Justice
Italian director Ilaria Borelli, known for her work in films like Life Is Beautiful and A Girl from the Brothel takes on the directorial lead for The Goat. Borelli has made a mark not only as an actress and director but also as a writer and producer.
Her passion for storytelling and activism merges in this film, aiming to challenge Western societies on their role in appropriating natural resources from less privileged nations. The Goat serves as a mirror reflecting the consequences of such exploitation, particularly on vulnerable women and girls in different parts of the world.
Star-Studded Cast
The film's stellar cast includes Oscar-winning actress Mira Sorvino, who portrays a crucial role as the company's engineer. John Savage takes on the character of the CEO of the multinational company with intentions to seize the village's spring for bottled water production.
Among the familiar faces that made an appearance in the movie are Amr Saad, Sayed Ragab, Nelly Karim, Arfa Abdelrasoul, Fathy Abdelwehab, Hesham Ashour, and Maya Talam.
Filming in Siwa Oasis
The Goat offers viewers a visual feast, with the entire film shot in the mesmerizing landscapes of Siwa Oasis in Egypt. Director of Photography David Vlastis captures the essence of this unique location, providing visuals that serve the narrative and immerse the audience in the cultural richness of the setting. The film's attention to detail extends to costume design by Andrea Sorrentino and interior design by Ahmed Fayez, enhancing the authenticity of their created world.
