Film Lens
Zelal is a documentary film from 2010 that focuses on the lives of patients in Abbasiya's mental hospital in Egypt. Directed by Marianne Khoury, the film presents the experiences of individuals labeled as 'mad' by society. It illustrates how these patients often find the hospital to be a refuge from the outside world, not necessarily due to their mental state, but because of the fear of societal rejection. The film challenges viewers to reconsider their perceptions of mental illness and the concept of freedom in a society that marginalizes those who are different.
The documentary took three years to produce, including eight months of filming. The soundtrack was created by the patients themselves, adding an authentic layer to the film. Supported by the World Health Organization, Zelal offers a unique perspective on mental health in Egypt, emphasizing the precarious nature of freedom for those deemed 'different' by societal standards.
Why Watch
- •Meet the patients of Abbasiya's mental hospital in Egypt.
- •Find out how patients create their own soundtrack.
- •See the impact of societal rejection on mental health.
Did You Know
•The documentary took 3 years to make, with 8 months of shooting.
•The soundtrack was created by the patients of the mental hospital.
•Zelal won the Annual Prize of the International Critics for Arab films in 2010.
Perfect For
Mental health awarenessEgyptian cultureDocumentary enthusiasts