MIT Lecture Series Committee

Inch'Allah Dimanche (2001)

Center for International Studies Film Series 2008: Women and the Middle East

This Spring CIS presents three films from the Middle East, based in Algeria/France, Israel/The Golan Heights and Iraq before, during and after the US war and invasion in 2003. The films focus on the lives of three women, linked together by their Middle Eastern identity and a variety of challenging issues. They are portrayed while following their life paths amidst the political and social trials common to the region. Meriam Belli, Anat Biletzki and Ban Al-Mahfodh from MIT will discuss some background aspects to the three films presented (respectively). They will aim to examine the socio-political context that Middle Eastern women are facing in the region. Both the films and speakers will attempt to throw light on their roles as women within the context of trying circumstances of isolation, tribulation and modern warfare, while holding on to freedom of spirit.

French/Algerian director Yamina Benguigi brings us a passionate immigrant story of a woman struggling against old world traditions. Zouina leaves her homeland with her three children to join her husband in France, where he's been living for the past ten years. In a land and culture foreign to her, Zouina struggles to adjust to her new life but eventually discovers a rekindled sense of adventure sparked by her longing for freedom and experience. Winner of the International Critics Award at the Toronto International Film Festival and the Grand Prize at the Marrakech International Film Festival. [web.mit.edu]

Discussing the film is Meriam N. Belli of the MIT History Deptartment.