Ala Eddine Slim on crafting new worlds in film

Agora: Unraveling Mysteries and Challenging Conventions

At the recent Locarno Film Festival, the movie Agora stood out for its artistic audacity and visionary narrative, earning the prestigious Pardo Verde award. Director Ala Eddine Slim’s unique blend of mysticism and imagination shines through in this film, which explores humanity’s struggle to overcome past traumas.

The story follows the journey of three missing people returning as ghosts to their hometown, observed by a blue dog and a black crow. Slim’s unconventional approach to storytelling, accompanied by a vibrant color palette carefully chosen for symbolic significance, creates a visually captivating experience.

His collaborative spirit extends to working with actors, emphasizing improvisation and experimentation to bring out the essence of the narrative. Despite the challenges of filmmaking in Tunisia, Slim remains dedicated to his craft, with several exciting projects on the horizon.

For Eddine Slim, filmmaking is not just about providing answers but also about provoking emotions and exploring new possibilities, offering viewers a unique perspective on the world through his visionary lens.

As he continues to navigate the evolving landscape of cinema, Slim’s commitment to storytelling and pushing boundaries shines through in his work.

By Mariana Hristova, freelance film critic and cultural journalist