Premium Subscribers receive an as-it-happens dispatch rounding up new-to-me projects I find intriguing for any number of reasons.
They are typically at some stage of development, and unreleased (or not widely accessible).
Here are a few recently compiled.
- “In the Shadows” by Anthony Wonke (Somalia, UK): A biopic about Somali-British professional boxer Ramla Ali, starring Jasmine Jobson. The film follows Ali’s journey from refugee to becoming the first Somali-British professional boxing champion and the first boxer to represent Somalia at the Olympics while contending with cultural barriers and a secret romance. Co-financed by Civic Studios, Affine Films, and The World We Want Studios. In pre-production.
- “The Last One” by Hafsia Herzi (Algeria, France): A loose adaptation of Fatima Daas’ novel, following the youngest child in a family of Algerian immigrants in France. The story explores her struggle to reconcile her Muslim faith with her attraction to women as she transitions from a suburban high school to a posh prep school. Produced by June Films and Katuh Studio, with support from Arte France Cinéma, Eurimages, and various regional funds. In Post-production.
- “Stallions” by Rita Baghdadi (Morocco, USA): A documentary following a crew of stallion riders on the coast of Morocco as they make dreams come true. Directed by Emmy award-winning filmmaker Rita Baghdadi, known for her intimate, character-driven films. Supported by the Sundance Institute Documentary Fund. In Development.
- “Afromystic” by Seyi Adebanjo (Nigeria, Brazil, USA): Described as a lyrical documentary following LGBTQ+ Yorùbá practitioners across Nigeria, Brazil, and the United States in their quest for post-colonial liberation. Directed by Seyi Adebanjo and produced by a team including Nala Simone Toussaint and Bryan E. Glover. Supported by the Sundance Institute Documentary Fund. In Production.
Tracking…
[Photo: Ramla Ali via CNN]