In a bid to compete for the esteemed Oscar International Feature Film race in 2024, Stephen Gerard Kelly and Garry Keane’s documentary In The Shadow of Beirut has been submitted as Ireland’s entry. This thought-provoking film, executive produced by Hillary Clinton, Chelsea Clinton, and Siobhan Sinnerton of HiddenLight Productions, was specifically chosen by the Irish Film & Television Academy. The selection comes after last year’s nomination of The Quiet Girl, directed by Colm Bairéad, which marked the first-ever Irish film to be recognized in this category.
In The Shadow of Beirut, Kelly, a first-time filmmaker, dedicated five years to immersing himself in the lives of four families residing in the Sabra and Shatila neighborhoods outside Beirut. Throughout this period, the region was embroiled in an overwhelming economic and political crisis. The film serves as a window into their struggle and resilience, following a tragic massacre that took place in 1882. Notably, the dialogue in the film predominantly unfolds in Arabic, adding an authentic layer to the storytelling.
The financing of In The Shadow of Beirut was made possible through the collaboration of Screen Ireland and ZDF/Arte. This support allowed the filmmakers to bring their vision to life. The documentary received international acclaim after its world premiere in June at the Doc Edge Festival in New Zealand. The film also qualifies for consideration in the Oscar Feature Documentary category, expanding its reach and potential impact.
Áine Moriarty, the CEO of IFTA Academy, highlights the importance of In The Shadow of Beirut in reaching a global audience and fostering connection. The film’s raw storytelling, executed with heartbreaking honesty, allows viewers to intimately experience the lives of families attempting to navigate and survive in the face of adversity. At its core, the documentary raises thought-provoking questions about hope and the resilience of the human spirit.
The production of In The Shadow of Beirut was a collaborative effort, bringing together talents from various countries and production companies. The acclaimed Belfast-based Cyprus Avenue Films, known for their impactful documentaries such as Gaza and Bobby Sands: 66 Days, served as the film’s producer. Other production partners include Abbout Productions from Beirut, Republic of Ireland-based Real Films, and Berlin-based Gebrueder Beetz Filmproduktion. This diverse group of co-producers, including Myriam Sassine, Christian Beetz, Brendan J. Byrne, and Alison Toomey, collectively contributed their expertise and perspectives to bring the film to fruition.
In The Shadow of Beirut offers a unique cinematic experience that delves deep into the lives of those affected by crisis and tragedy. With utmost compassion and sensitivity, the film sheds light on the resilience and strength of the human spirit. By humanizing the stories of the four families living in the aftermath of the 1882 massacre, the documentary invites audiences to reflect upon their own lives and the universal themes of hope, survival, and love.
Overall, In The Shadow of Beirut stands as a testament to the power of documentary filmmaking in evoking empathy and understanding. Ireland’s submission for the 2024 Oscar International Feature Film race is poised to leave a lasting impact and spark meaningful conversations on the global stage.