This weekend, The Brink of Dreams made history by winning the L'Œil d'Or (Golden Eye Award) for Best Documentary Film at the 77th Cannes Film Festival. Produced by Felucca Films and helmed by the dynamic duo of Nada Riyadh and Ayman El Amir, this groundbreaking film is the first of its kind from Egypt to clinch this prestigious award.

Set in a remote southern Egyptian village, The Brink of Dreams is a documentary that chronicles the journey of a group of young girls. These girls, defying societal norms, form an all-female street theatre troupe and strive to make their dreams of becoming performers a reality. The film, shot over a span of four years, captures their transformation from carefree childhood to the complexities of womanhood. 

The Brink of Dreams premiered during Critics' Week, with the cast and crew in attendance. The film was widely acclaimed by audiences and critics, including reviews in Le Monde, Variety, and Screen Daily.

 

Global Recognition of Egypt

The Brink of Dreams has made a mark on Egypt's film industry and garnered global recognition. It is the first Egyptian film to win an award at the esteemed Cannes Film Festival, triumphing over 22 other documentaries. The film's narrative, spanning four years of filming, is a testament to the resilience and determination of the girls, adding depth and richness to its global appeal.

 

Breaking Social Norms Through Personal Stories

The film tells the story of girls from a remote village in southern Egypt as they grow up and form a theatre troupe. They take to the streets to perform plays addressing serious issues like early marriage, domestic violence, and the dominance of men in their traditional society. Many girls face these challenges in conservative communities, but not all have the courage to speak out. The film highlights the bravery of these girls who defy societal norms. 

 

Years in the Making: The Bonds and Effort Behind The Brink of Dreams

This documentary was truly a work of love, reflecting years of dedication and effort. It involved two years of thorough research followed by four years of filming. Directed by Nada Riyadh and Ayman El Amir, the filmmakers formed close bonds not only with the girls but also with their families and the entire crew.

They aimed to create a genuine family atmosphere to ensure nothing felt faked or staged on camera. As a result, every scene you witness in the film is raw and authentic, reflecting the real experiences of those involved.