"Only Rebels Win": A Stirring Exploration of Love Amidst Turmoil
Fandango Sales has recently taken on the international distribution for Only Rebels Win, a new film by the talented French-Lebanese director Danielle Arbid. This highly anticipated work is set to make its world premiere in the Panorama section of the prestigious Berlin Film Festival.
Starring the acclaimed Hiam Abbass, known for her role in the hit series Succession, the film also features Amine Benrachid, an emerging actor with South Sudanese and Chadian heritage. The narrative unfolds in the vibrant yet troubled city of Beirut, where Abbass portrays Suzanne, a middle-class widow of Palestinian descent. After intervening to save Osmane—played by Benrachid—from a racist assault, she forms an unexpected bond with the young, undocumented Sudanese man who is desperately searching for a brighter future.
Despite their age difference—Suzanne is significantly older than Osmane, and a mother to two adult children—their loneliness leads them to an intimate connection. Initially hesitant, they eventually reveal their feelings for one another, falling deeply in love as Lebanon faces severe social and political upheaval. Their relationship becomes a source of tension, inciting anger and resentment from society around them, forcing both characters to confront this hostility while standing firm in their affection.
Danielle Arbid, a filmmaker and video artist recognized for her poignant storytelling, has a strong track record with films such as In the Battlefields, A Lost Man, Parisienne, and Simple Passion. Her works have garnered accolades at renowned film festivals including Cannes, San Sebastián, Toronto, Busan, and Locarno. Additionally, her documentaries and essays have received prestigious awards like the Golden and Silver Leopard at Locarno. Arbid’s recent adaptation of Annie Ernaux’s autobiographical novella in Simple Passion was also showcased at the Cannes Film Festival in 2020, further establishing her reputation in the cinematic landscape.
Hiam Abbass, who hails from Nazareth and spent her early years in the quaint village of Deir Hanna, began her acting career in the Palestinian theater scene before relocating to Paris after a stint in London. She is celebrated for her performances in films such as Satin Rouge, Paradise Now, Free Zone, Munich, The Visitor, Lemon Tree, In Syria, Blade Runner 2049, and Gaza Mon Amour. Throughout her career, Abbass has collaborated with notable directors like Steven Spielberg, Jim Jarmusch, and Ridley Scott, earning critical acclaim and several award nominations along the way. Recently, she gained attention for her roles in the comedy Ramy on Huly and as Marcia Roy in HBO's Succession.
Amine Benrachid, who plays Osmane, trained at the École Kourtrajmé, a nonprofit film school founded by Ladj Ly aimed at democratizing access to filmmaking for underrepresented communities. Only Rebels Win marks his first leading role in a feature film, and his performance is expected to resonate strongly with audiences.
Raffaella Di Giulio, the managing director of international sales and acquisitions at Fandango Sales, expressed enthusiasm about the film, stating that Only Rebels Win is a profoundly moving love story, crafted with exceptional cinematic artistry. She emphasized their pride in collaborating with Arbid, whose unique vision continues to inspire and challenge audiences worldwide.
Produced by Easy Riders Films and Abbout Productions, in collaboration with Rise Studios and the Arab Radio and Television network, Only Rebels Win benefits from support from various organizations including the Red Sea Souk Project Market, Hubert Bals Fund + Europe, and others. This multifaceted approach to production highlights the commitment to creating impactful cinema that speaks to universal themes of love and resilience in the face of societal challenges.
