Behind the Lines (2023) [N/A]
Release Date:
April 16, 2023
Original Title:
Draw for change! - Behind the Lines
Alternate Titles:
Dessiner pour résister : Syrie - La dessinatrice Amany Al-Ali
Genres:
Animation | Documentary
Production Companies:
Clin d'oeil Films
Les Films du Balibari
Point du Jour
Real Lava
a_BAHN
ma.ja.de. FilmProduktions
Production Countries:
Belgium | France | Germany | Luxembourg | Netherlands
Ratings / Certifications:
N/A
Runtime: 64
Amany Al-Ali stands out as one of Syria's few female cartoonists, residing in her father's home in Idlib, the last city unconquered by Assad's forces. Like her remaining neighbours she's submitted to relentless Russian airstrikes and caught between advancing troops and extremist groups. Despite acclaim for her art, she faces threats, condemnation, and degradation, causing her to contemplate leaving. Ironically, her artwork has graced galleries in France and Italy but never received exposure within Syria's borders. The film captures her endeavor to organize her inaugural exhibition in Idlib. This experience compels her to confront the harsh realities of a city defined by bombings and male interference. While organizing drawing lessons for women and girls, comforting her young niece, and sharing her story with the documentary crew, Amany's outlook on the future gradually erodes.