Short Film Program
Baadarane
Lebanon
Schedule
Nov 15, 2026 | 12:00PM
Synopsis:
A young boy from Mount Lebanon grapples with his mother’s sudden death, questioning the foundation of his faith and whether God punishes or saves people. In a series of mischievous challenges spreading anarchy in his tight-knit village, he attempts to hear back from God, yet hears nothing. His growing frustrations turn sinister and violent, as he rejects the religious traditions that once shaped his life. In the absence of God’s response, he realizes the absurdity of the world around him. His rebellion spirals into darkness in this modern spin on the myth of Prometheus through the eyes of an eight-year-old Druz child from Baadarane.
Director
Samah El-Kadi
Samah El-Kadi is a Lebanese director and screenwriter. He has recently received an international Emmy nomination for his short film Stardust among Shahid's 6:07 series. After graduating from NYFA in Los Angeles, Samah went on to direct several short films and commercials with brands such as Samsung, Tesla, and Vodafone. His recent projects in development have won the ART distribution award at Red Sea Lodge, and the Sunbird Stories award. His upcoming releases include the short films “Ghostland” and “Baadarane”. Samah is currently developing his debut feature film The Olive Press.