The Man Who Sold His Skin
Directed by Kaouther Ben Hania
Synopsis:
Sam Ali, a young Syrian refugee, escapes to Lebanon, leaving behind his homeland and the love of his life, Abeer. Desperate to reach Europe to reunite with her, Sam makes a Faustian bargain with a renowned contemporary artist, allowing his back to be tattooed into a living work of art. As he becomes a celebrated exhibit in the art world, Sam grapples with the commodification of his own body and the loss of his personal freedom.
Premiere:
Venice International Film Festival, 2020 (World Premiere)
Awards & Recognition:
• Nominated for Best International Feature Film, 93rd Academy Awards, 2021
• Best Actor Award (Yahya Mahayni), Venice International Film Festival, 2020
• Edipo Re Award, Venice International Film Festival, 2020
• Best Arab Film, El Gouna Film Festival, 2020
• Best Screenplay, Stockholm International Film Festival, 2020
• Nominated for Best Foreign Film, Magritte Awards, 2022
• Prix Lumières for Best International Co-Production, 2021
• German Camera Award Nominee (Christopher Aoun), 2021
Cinematography Press Highlights:
“Stunning visuals elevate this ambitious film. Cinematographer Christopher Aoun’s work brilliantly merges beauty with a sense of discomfort, perfectly capturing the narrative’s provocative themes.”
– The Hollywood Reporter
“Christopher Aoun’s striking cinematography heightens the film’s poignant reflections on freedom, art, and identity.”
– Variety
BTS
