The Tunisian thriller “Sofia” had a successful screening at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, marking its first showing in America. The film was well-received by audiences and critics alike.
The film continues its global festival tour and is scheduled to participate in the 12th Manchester Film Festival, taking place from March 19th to 29th in the United Kingdom.
“Sofia” had its world premiere at the Marrakech International Film Festival, where it received a warm ovation and widespread acclaim. It is a joint Tunisian-British production.
About the Film
The film follows “Emily,” who leaves London for Tunisia to help her daughter “Sofia” reconnect with her estranged husband, Hisham. However, what was supposed to be a peaceful reunion turns into a nightmare when Sofia suddenly disappears. This triggers the unraveling of a web of lies, secrets, and betrayals that threaten the stability of an already fractured family. As events escalate, Emily finds herself in a frantic race against time to find her daughter before it’s too late.
Production Details
The film “Sofia” features a cast including Jessica Brown Findlay, Jonathan Hyde, Kais Al-Shatti, Hiba Abbouk, Ziad El Ayadi, and Souad Ben Slimane.
The cinematography was handled by Willie Neill, editing by Hafedh El-Aridi, music composed by Selim Arjoun, and sound design by Daniel Bodsorth. The film is distributed in the Arab world by MAD Distribution, with worldwide sales handled by MAD World.
Sofia
Sofia is the capital and largest city of Bulgaria, with a history spanning over 2,400 years. It has been inhabited by Thracians, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans, with landmarks like the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the ancient Serdica complex reflecting its diverse past. Today, it serves as the nation’s political, economic, and cultural center.
Santa Barbara International Film Festival
The Santa Barbara International Film Festival is an annual event founded in 1986, dedicated to showcasing independent and international cinema. It has grown into a significant cultural fixture, often attracting major Hollywood talent for tributes and premieres against the backdrop of the coastal city.
Manchester Film Festival
The Manchester Film Festival is an annual international film event founded in 2015, dedicated to showcasing independent cinema from around the world. It was established to provide a platform for emerging filmmakers and has grown to become a significant cultural fixture in the city’s arts calendar, held at various venues across Manchester.
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom is a sovereign nation comprising England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, with a history of formation through successive political unions, most notably the Acts of Union in 1707 and 1800. It emerged as a major global power during the British Empire and is known for its constitutional monarchy, parliamentary democracy, and significant cultural influence worldwide.
Marrakech International Film Festival
The Marrakech International Film Festival, founded in 2001 under the patronage of King Mohammed VI, is a major annual cinematic event held in Marrakech, Morocco. It aims to celebrate cinematic art and promote cultural exchange, attracting international stars and showcasing a diverse selection of films from around the world.
London
London is the capital city of England and the United Kingdom, with a history dating back to Roman times when it was founded as Londinium. It has since grown into a major global financial and cultural hub, home to historic landmarks such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the Houses of Parliament.
Tunisia
Tunisia is a North African country with a rich history shaped by ancient civilizations, including the Phoenicians who founded Carthage, followed by Roman, Arab, Ottoman, and French influences. Its cultural sites, such as the ruins of Carthage and the medina of Tunis, reflect this diverse heritage. Today, it is known as the birthplace of the Arab Spring and for its Mediterranean coastline and historic architecture.
MAD Distribution
MAD Distribution is a contemporary art gallery and cultural hub located in the heart of Athens, Greece. It was founded to support and promote emerging Greek and international artists, focusing on innovative and experimental visual arts. The space operates as a dynamic platform for exhibitions, workshops, and artistic dialogue within the city’s modern cultural scene.
MAD World
“MAD World” is a contemporary art museum and cultural center in Beijing, China, which opened in 2021. It is dedicated to immersive digital art experiences and is housed in a futuristic building designed by the MAD Architects firm, founded by Ma Yansong. The site reflects a modern approach to cultural spaces, focusing on technology and interactive media within an architectural landmark.
