The Magic Box by Ridha Behi (Tunisia, 2002, 88 min, 35 mm)

Synopsis:

Raouf is haunted by dreams that point to a failing marriage. For solace, he immerses himself in his current project, a film that transports him back to his youth in the small town of Kairouan where he grew up in fear of his strict traditionalist father, and in awe of his dashing uncle, a traveling movie projectionist whose influence led to a lifelong love of cinema. Compared by some critics to Cinema Paradiso, this beautifully shot film provides a window into the complexities of life in the Maghreb. In French and Arabic w/English subtitles
In French and Arabic w/English subtitles

Proceeded by How Beautiful is the Sea.

Introductory remarks by H.E. Mr. Hatem Atallah, Ambassador of Tunisia to the United States.  Post-screening panel discussion with filmmakers Ridha Behi and Sabine El Chamaa and Joshua Schreier (Vassar College)

Filmmaker’s Bio:

Festivals and Awards:

•Venice Film Festival, 2002
•Silver Pyramid, Cairo Film Festival, 2002
•Philadelphia Film Festival, 2003
•Arabian Sights, Washington DC, 2003
•Palm Spring Film Festival, 2003
•Rotterdam Arab Film Festival, 2004

Reviews:

Print Source:

Bernard Hayat
Email: bhayat@noos.fr