Zafar Al-Abidin’s “Sophia” Shines at Santa Barbara International Film Festival
Tunisian thriller “Sophia” by director and actor Zafar Al-Abidin continues its global journey, screening at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival in the USA, featuring a gripping story of secrets, betrayal, and family conflict
Screenings at the Festival
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Thursday, February 5 at 12:00 PM – Film Center 4
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Saturday, February 7 at 8:20 PM – Film Center 2
The film had its world premiere at the Marrakech International Film Festival, receiving standing ovations from the audience 🎉👏
Storyline
“Sophia” follows Emily, who travels from London to Tunisia hoping to reconnect her daughter Sophia with her estranged husband Hisham. What should have been a peaceful meeting turns into a living nightmare when Sophia disappears. Lies, secrets, and betrayal unravel, threatening family stability while Emily races against time to find her daughter 🕰️💔.
Cast & Crew
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Director, Writer, Producer & Lead: Zafar Al-Abidin
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Cast: Jessica Brown Findlay, Jonathan Hyde, Kais Al-Setti, Heba Abouk, Ziad Ayadi, Souad Ben Slimane
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Co-production: Double A Productions & New Sparta Productions
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Cinematography: Willie Neil | Editing: Hafez Al-Aridi | Music: Salim Arjoun | Sound Design: Daniel Budsworth
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Distribution: MAD Distribution (Arab world), MAD World (international) 🌎🎬
Zafar Al-Abidin: Actor & Director
Al-Abidin, the Tunisian actor, has extensive experience in international and Arab cinema and television, with works including:
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UK Series: Dream Team, Spooks
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Global Films: Children of Men, Sex and the City 2
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Arab Productions: Maktoub, Halawet El Donia, Arous Beirut
Directorial career:
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Ghodwa (2021) – Golden Globe nominee & FIPRESCI winner at Cairo International Film Festival
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To My Son – Best Film & Special Mention for Screenplay at Hollywood Arab Film Festival
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Sophia – latest feature film, continuing his dual career as actor and director 🌟🎥
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