MYRIAM SASSINE (Abbout Productions) Co-Producer IN THE SHADOW OF BEIRUT

“I was approached by a team of Irish filmmakers who had a throve of powerful footage from the neighbourhoods of Sabra and Shatila, some of the toughest parts of Beirut, and invited to become a producer on this film. I remain deeply impressed and genuinely moved by how the filmmakers approached and filmed people with both sensitivity and respect. The film captures the stark realities of poverty faced by families every day, highlighting the humanity and kindness and how people continue to live, love and hope in the face of overwhelming adversity. The filmmakers’ dedication to immersing themselves in the community is evident throughout the film, and the deep connection to the families shines through in every frame.  This film is a must watch for anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of the human cost of the ongoing multifaceted crisis, and a powerful window in a rarely seen world, even by Lebanese people living in Lebanon.”

ZEINA ABOUL-HOSN, LEBANESE EDITOR, IN THE SHADOW OF BEIRUT

“IN THE SHADOW OF BEIRUT is truly a labour of love. In both the intimate moments cinematically captured by Stephen over 4 years as a deep level of trust grows among the people he gets to know first as friends and then like adopted family and the hard work that went into editing the material and creating the film. This is no normal documentary where people parachute into a foreign land to film an unknown people.  It's impossible to capture the footage Stephen filmed without investing significant time and developing real friendships, particularly in this part of Beirut.  Stephen takes time to get to know people first and understand who they are before ever filming. This shows in the footage. There is a fantastic, passionate and experienced team behind this project, and I, as a Lebanese woman, feel privileged to have been part of it.”

Stephen’s feature length documentary film In the Shadow of Beirut had its world premiere at the Academy Award qualifying international festival Doc Edge on June 1st 2023. It won three awards; Best in Category ‘Our World, Our Stories’, Best International Cinematography and Best International Feature Film. The film is now starting what is hoped will be a long and successful festival run where it will be seen by audiences all around the world. Thanks to Abbout Productions, Screen Ireland, HiddenLight Productions and ZDF/ARTE for helping make this happen. And most importantly, thanks to the people of Sabra and Shatila for opening your hearts and lives to us.