AUS films illuminate stories of resilience, identity and humanity at 2024 MESA FilmFest

In the world of filmmaking, stories have the power to transcend boundaries, spark conversations and shed light on the unseen. At American University of Sharjah (AUS), this belief fuels the creativity of both students and faculty, who continually push the limits of storytelling. This year, three films originating from the halls of AUS, each carrying a powerful narrative that invites audiences to reflect, feel and connect, have been selected for the prestigious 2024 Middle Eastern Studies Association’s (MESA) Film Festival, part of MESA’s 58th Annual Meeting taking place November 11-16, 2024, in Washington, D.C.

From the poignant struggles of a mother caught in the chaos of conflict, to the unsung heroes navigating the fast-paced world of urban life, to a thoughtful exploration of the World Cup’s dual narratives, these films reveal the raw, unfiltered realities of the human experience. 

Sarkha: A Powerful Voice for the Voiceless

Based on a true story, Sarkha tells the harrowing and resilient tale of a mother trying to protect her infant amid the devastation of an airstrike. Directed by AUS student Ayah Al-Muqbel, alongside team members Dua'a Al-Saleh, Naaz Hasan, Aliya Ali, Jolie Ayyad and Bhairavi Pala, the film is inspired by a real account from a book by Al-Muqbel’s grandfather, the renowned writer and poet Ibrahim Al-Muqbel, 88, a survivor of the Palestinian Nakba in 1948.

"We chose to portray this story because it captures the resilience and suffering Palestinians have endured for over 76 years, continuing to this day," explained Al-Muqbel. "It’s a call for empathy and justice, a voice for the voiceless, shedding light on stories that are often left untold."

Created as part of the MCM 39410 Digital Video Skills II course taught by Assistant Professor of Media Communication Dr. Bentley Brown, Sarkha allowed the students to refine their ideas and skills through a structured process. "Dr. Brown’s guidance was instrumental, offering feedback and helping us navigate the challenges we faced during production," shared Al-Muqbel.

The film, which draws on themes of resilience, survival and faith, tells the story through the lens of a mother fighting to protect her infant, Eman, amid chaos. The name "Eman," which means "faith," was chosen specifically for its symbolism. It reflects the strong belief in God, resilience and the fight for freedom that characterize the Palestinian people, driven by their deep faith that one day, Palestine will be free. According to Al-Muqbel, the project presented significant challenges, from severe weather disruptions during filming to managing complex special effects, but the dedication of the team ensured its success. Sarkha is a call for empathy and justice.

"Shooting amid challenging conditions like the floods in the UAE tested our resolve, but the teamwork and perseverance of the crew made it possible," said Al-Muqbel, who also took on the lead acting role due to unexpected scheduling conflicts with the original actress.

An Unexpected Turn: Documenting Everyday Heroes

In today’s fast-paced world, delivery drivers play a crucial role in keeping things moving smoothly, providing convenience to people’s daily lives. Recognizing their vital contributions, a group of Media Communication students from AUS made these everyday heroes the focus of An Unexpected Turn, a documentary that explores the challenges delivery drivers face. 

The film, created by students Turki Al Mutairi, Shahd Mohamed, Shireen Abdelghani and Ashlyn Ferrao, was a class project for MCM 326 Content Creation for Integrated Marketing Communications also taught by Dr. Brown. An Unexpected Turn quickly evolved into a meaningful exploration of these essential workers. 

"I noticed how important delivery drivers have become to urban life, yet their stories often go unnoticed," said  Al Mutairi, the film's director. This curiosity became the foundation for the group’s project.

Initially, the team found it challenging to engage the drivers in sharing their personal experiences. However, they soon shifted their approach to focus on the filmmaking process itself while still capturing the drivers' narratives. The team’s goal was clear: to shine a light on the hidden challenges behind the conveniences many take for granted. 

"We want viewers to appreciate the hard work of those who make it possible for us to enjoy simple conveniences, like having food delivered," said Al Mutairi.

The course MCM 326 played a crucial role in shaping the film, as the students learned how to develop and pitch content tailored to real-world audiences. 

"The course taught us to focus on concept, context and aesthetic approach," Al Mutairi noted. The students credit the success of the project to their clear communication and shared vision.

Set Pieces: A Spotlight on Global Identity

Dr. Brown’s own work was accepted for the festival as well. Set amid the celebrations, controversies and global spotlight of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, Set Pieces captures a story beyond the headlines—a reflection on what it means to witness a historic event in a place where cultures and identities converge. The film invites audiences to explore the dualities of joy and critique, connection and division, that characterized this monumental occasion.

"For me, the real story wasn’t just about the Western media’s focus on ‘sportswashing.’ It was about the exuberant, almost hysterical joy felt by people from around the world," said Dr. Brown. "I wanted to capture that energy, to explore how this event, held in a primarily Arabic-speaking, Muslim country, resonated on a global scale."

Set Pieces is a thoughtful meditation on themes of national identity and global belonging. Through the lens of the World Cup, the film delves into the euphoria of attendees from across borders and political barriers, contrasting it with the narratives of labor and class that made the event possible. It’s a continuation of Dr. Brown’s broader exploration of identity—following in the footsteps of his previous films such as Oustaz and Behind the Sun.

Being selected for the 2024 MESA Film Festival is a reflection of the power of storytelling in connecting academic and creative pursuits. "The festival stands out because of its ties to the academic world, and it’s an honor for AUS to be represented not only by Set Pieces but also by two incredible student films, Sarkha and An Unexpected Turn," shared Dr. Brown.

Through Set Pieces, Dr. Brown hopes viewers will walk away with more questions than answers—an invitation to think critically about the world. 

"A film is more interesting if it ends with a question rather than a conclusion," he reflects.

Students and faculty at AUS continue to demonstrate their capacity for creative storytelling and meaningful contributions to important social conversations. These three films, though distinct in focus, share a commitment to highlighting the human experience, resilience and the stories that shape the world.