The film 'Thuraya Habibi' by Lebanese director Nicola Khoury explores the life of artist Thuraya Baghdadi and her relationship with the late director Maroun Baghdadi, who passed away tragically. Recently screened in Lebanon, the film sheds light on their shared memories and the effects of the Lebanese Civil War on their lives.
The story begins when Thuraya Baghdadi, an ambitious dancer, was working with the 'Caracalla' troupe in the 1970s. Maroun Baghdadi, an emerging director, was searching for an actress for his film 'Little Wars' and chose Thuraya to be the film's heroine. From this point, a love story filled with adventures and challenges began.
Event Details
Maroun and Thuraya's marriage was not destined to last more than 12 years, as Maroun died in a mysterious accident in Beirut at the height of his career, just two years after winning the Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival for his film 'Out of Life'. His death left a significant shock in Lebanon and Paris, where Thuraya was pregnant in her last month with their child, Sharif. Despite the sorrow, Thuraya preserved Maroun's legacy and cared for their three children while continuing to practice and teach belly dancing.
Director Nicola Khoury aimed to explore this dual biography, conducting 120 hours of interviews with Thuraya over four years to produce the 77-minute film 'Thuraya Habibi'. The goal of the film was to gain her trust and explore the deep relationship that connected them, and what remained after 30 years of his passing.
Background & Context
The film premiered in Lebanon just days ago during the closing of the 'Beirut International Women’s Film Festival', amidst a large audience and significant interest. Despite the passage of years, Maroun Baghdadi is still regarded as a symbol of Lebanese cinema, and his films are showcased as testimonies to the bitterness of the Lebanese Civil War.
Thuraya speaks in the film about her life with Maroun, the difficulties of cohabitation, and her life as an artist after his departure. She recalls how the war forced them to migrate to Paris, where he continued to work tirelessly while she took care of the family. She expresses her feelings clearly, stating, 'We didn't have real diaries, but those few moments we lived together were significant.'
Impact & Consequences
The film serves as a review of Thuraya's memories, as she sits for hours in front of her computer in Paris, narrating to the director who interviews her from the other side of Beirut. She expresses her reluctance to be seen as the grieving widow, saying, 'I don't want to cry.' Her candidness and transparency reflect the strength of her character, as she does not pretend to be perfect but speaks openly about her experiences and thoughts.
The exchanged messages between the couple include a distinctive romantic element, showcasing Maroun's deep love and trust in their relationship. Thuraya keeps these letters as precious memories that reflect feelings of love and nostalgia.
Regional Significance
The film illustrates how art can be a means of expressing pain and loss, and how memories can revive relationships even after separation. Thuraya Baghdadi's experience reflects that of many women in the Arab world who face similar challenges under difficult circumstances.
Ultimately, 'Thuraya Habibi' reflects a profound human journey, reviving the memory of a director who left a mark on Lebanese cinema, and highlighting the power of love and memories in the face of challenges.