Having been around since the 1920s, Lebanese cinema has thrived enough to potentially even rival Egypt.
The nation is responsible for an array of films since the Lebanese Civil War, and it’s showing no signs of slowing down. Last year, Nadine Labaki’s film ‘Capernaum’ was nominated for an Academy Award. As was Ziad Doueiry’s ‘The Insult’ the year prior.
So it goes without saying – Lebanon has undoubtably become a key figure in the global playing field. And we’re here to celebrate it. If you still haven’t dived into the Mediterranean nation’s impressive repertoire of films, we’ve rounded up the best Lebanese films for you to get started.
West Beirut (1998)
If there’s one Lebanese film you must watch, West Beirut is it. Set in 1975 at the beginning of the civil war, the film follows the story of Tarek, a high school student who is enthralled by the idea of not having to go to school. Instead, he shoots Super 8 films of all the chaos surrounding him.
Capernaum (2018)
The list would not be complete without Nadine Labaki’s Capernaum. The Oscar-nominated film sees first-time actor Zain Al Rafeea play a 12-year old Syrian refugee who sues his parents for neglect while serving a five-year sentence for a violent crime.
Ghadi (2013)
Ghadi, a young boy with special needs is at the centre of this 2013 film. With the concept of disability front and centre, the townspeople begin calling Ghadi a demon, all because he utters unintelligible sounds most of the time.
Very Big Shot (2015)
Directed by Mir-Jean Bou Chaaya (who is also behind the Netflix series, Jinn), Film Kteer Kbeer as the film was titled in Arabic, sees a Lebanese drug dealer working to sway public opinion with the help of a filmmaker as he attempts to smuggle drugs across borders.
Phantom Beirut (1980s)
Set in the late 1980s, when the Lebanese conflict was at its peak, one man took advantage of the situation to fake his death.
Under the Bombs (2006)
The film sees a woman hop into a taxi on a quest to find her sister and her son in the wake of Israel’s bombing in 2006.
The Lebanese Rocket Society (2012)
Most people aren’t aware that Lebanon ran its very own space program from 1960 to 1966. This 2012 film chronicles its beginnings, its ends, and the several rockets that were launched from the hills of Beirut.
Where Do We Go Now? (2011)
If you like Nadine Labaki’s work, you’ll love this. The filmmaker tells the story of a group of women and their efforts to ease tensions between Muslim and Christian families in their village.
When Maryam Spoke Out (2001)
The film centres around a couple, Ziad and Maryam, who fall under societal pressure to have a baby. The film dives deep into their lives, Maryam’s relationship with her mother in law, and what it means to be an infertile Arab woman.
Tannoura Maxi (2012)
The 2012 film, directed by Joe Bou Eid, sees a priest on the brink of being ordained, fall in love with a woman and faces the temptation of being with her.
Little Wars (1982)
Directed by Maroun Baghdadi, this film stands as one of the most significant Lebanese works addressing the Lebanese Civil War. It follows three characters from different backgrounds, each offering a distinct perspective on the conflict and internal struggles within Beirut during the war. Blending drama with symbolism, the film sheds light on the divisions that tore Lebanon apart during this turbulent period. It was also one of the first Lebanese films to gain international recognition, including a showing at the Cannes Film Festival.
Bosta (2005)
A musical film directed by Philippe Aractingi, Bosta tells the story of a Lebanese dabke troupe attempting to modernize their cultural heritage by blending traditional music with contemporary rhythms. The narrative revolves around the challenges the group faces upon returning to their village after years of war. Bold and innovative, the film reimagines Lebanese heritage through music and dance, using them as tools to explore identity and reconciliation with the past.
A Perfect Day (2005)
Directed by Joana Hadjithomas and Khalil Joreige, this poignant film follows a young man and his mother as they grapple with the unresolved disappearance of the father during the Lebanese Civil War. Philosophical and deeply dramatic, the story delves into the emotions of waiting and searching for closure, while exploring the profound impact of absence on subsequent generations.
The Kite (2003)
Directed by Randa Chahal, The Kite tells a compelling love story between a Lebanese girl and a Druze Israeli boy living on the border between Lebanon and Palestine. The film captures the cultural and political tensions that divide the region, presenting a bold and sensitive exploration of complex relationships. Its fearless approach earned it international acclaim and several awards, while also sparking considerable controversy.
