We are proud to host the US Premiere of A Syrian Love Story (2015), which landed in third place on The Guardian’s year-end best list and serves as a gripping reminder of the ongoing conflict in Syria and its enduring consequences. This topical film depicts the toll of the tyrannical Assad dictatorship, through the story of a family it nearly tears apart. Filmed from the start in the thriving heart of the Yarmouk Camp in Damascus – made infamous by the unabashed brutality of its inhabitants being starved to death by the Assad regime, the family flees to Lebanon and then to France where they are given political asylum in the sleepy town of Albi, and watch the revolution from afar, waiting for Assad to fall.

Join us for this poignant family portrait that spotlights why people are staking their lives for change in the Arab world, and gives a firsthand look at the overwhelming obstacles in place for those seeking refuge.  Editor Matt Scholes, will be in attendance along with Director, Sean Mccallister and subjects of the film who will join us remotely for a discussion.

Proceeds from this event will go to support the American Refugee Committee. Donations will also be taken at the door.

Amer, 45, met Raghda, 40, in a Syrian prison cell 15 years ago, when Raghda was placed in a neighboring cell. Over months they communicated through a tiny hole they’d secretly made in the wall, fell in love, and when released started a family together. Their children, Bob and Kaka spent their whole lives watching their parents go to prison for their political beliefs, yet still feel empowered to follow in their footsteps as advocates for change.

Director Sean McAllister is known for his candid, frank films, depicting with extraordinary intimacy the lives of ordinary people who are struggling to survive but are survivors, caught up in political and personal conflict, struggling to make sense of the world we live in. From his early films Working For The Enemy (1997) and The Minders (1998), both nominated for a Royal Television Society Awards, to his more recent successes, Sundance Jury Prize-winning The Liberace Of Baghdad (2004), Japan: A Story Of Love And Hate (2008), ‘The Reluctant Revolutionary‘ and his recent Sheffield Jury Prize winning A Syrian Love Story (2015), Sean’s work continues to inspire, to surprise and to fascinate audiences.

After establishing a successful career in London, editing and directing commercials, music videos and short docs, Matthew edited his first feature documentary, collaborating with Director Sean Mcallister on A Syrian Love Story. The film was released to international critical acclaim in 2015, picking up dozens of award nominations, including a BAFTA, as well as winning the grand jury prize at Sheffield Doc Fest. Matthew is now based in New York, where he is currently editing his second feature, as well as beginning work on his own project.