About Synéastes Films
Synéastes Films was created in 2010 by filmmakers Rana Kazkaz and Anas Khalaf. With a focus on films from the Middle East, they have created international co-productions with countries such as France, Belgium, Switzerland, Jordan, Syria, Qatar, Australia and the U.S.
Their films include Mare Nostrum, Deaf Day, Searching for the Translator, and The Translator. They also have several feature films in development. Their work has been recognized and supported by Crossroads Thessaloniki, the Mediterranean Film Institute, Abu Dhabi Shasha, Melbourne’s Co-Production Market, Europe's MEDIA fund, Interchange, Med Film Factory, the British Council, Arte, France Televisions, the French CNC, the Prince Claus Fund and the European Union, Meetings on the Bridge, and The Atelier de la Cinéfondation Cannes.
FILMS
Deaf Day
2011
In Damascus, Syria, a Mother prepares her Deaf son to leave their home and venture outside in order to learn how to live in a hearing world. However, it is the Son who ends up teaching his mother the value of silence.
Searching For The Translator
2015
During an acting workshop, Syrian refugees are given a safe space to explore their feelings of fear and courage.
Mare Nostrum
2016
On the shore of the Mediterranean Sea, a Syrian Father makes a decision that puts his daughter’s life at risk.
The Translator
2020
March 2011. As the Syrian Revolution begins, a political refugee illegally returns to Syria and risks everything to free his brother from the Assad regime.
Upcoming Films
Love-45
An overweight Lebanese man, traumatized by a rocket attack that killed his parents and dreams, is inspired to heal when he meets a Syrian tennis prodigy.
Honest Politics
A woman is hired by a Syrian politician to teach him how to use the English language in order to create empathy for his government’s violent actions. Opposed to his views, she is nonetheless drawn to the permission to speak honestly with him.
The Hakawati’s Daughter
In 1960s Damascus, Shara’s gender prohibits her from inheriting the profession of a storyteller, hakawati, from her father. sixty years later, Shara is reminded of her struggle when she meets Zad, a little girl coming of age during the Syrian conflict.