Beirut: A new cultural event makes its debut in Beirut this November with the launch of Intersections - The UK Film Festival in Lebanon. This initiative, a collaboration among the British Council, the British Embassy in Beirut, and the Metropolis Cinema Association, is supported by the UK Government's GREAT Britain and Northern Ireland Campaign. The festival will take place from 13 to 19 November 2025 at the Metropolis Cinema, aiming to celebrate UK cinema's global influence while fostering connections with Lebanon's film community.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the festival, named Intersections, symbolizes the convergence of creative worlds, where cinema becomes a bridge between cultures. This biannual event is set to become a platform for exchange, innovation, and professional growth within the film and creative industries. Mayssa Dawi, Country Director of British Council Lebanon, emphasized the festival as a celebration of creativity and collaboration that strengthens the UK's role as a partner in creative economies.
The festival will showcase a diverse program of 12 films, ranging from contemporary releases to restored classics. Featured titles include works such as "Grand Theft Hamlet" by Pinny Grylls and Sam Crane, "Hot Milk" by Rebecca Lenkiewicz, and Ken Loach's "The Old Oak." Other notable films include "The Zone of Interest" by Jonathan Glazer and "The Outrun" by Nora Fingscheidt. The curated selection reflects the vibrancy of UK cinema and is presented in collaboration with Metropolis Cinema and UK rights holders.
Hania Mroueh, Director of Metropolis Cinema Association, stated that the partnership with the UK film festival aligns with their mission to promote independent cinema and cultural exchange. The festival offers a carefully curated selection of British films, strengthening Lebanon's role as a hub for international film culture.
A key component of Intersections is its Professional Programme, which offers Lebanese filmmakers access to UK expertise through workshops and talks. Sound Design and Technology sessions will be led by renowned sound artists like Johnny Burn, Paul Davies, and Larry Sider. Another workshop will explore the intersection of filmmaking and gaming technologies. Industry growth will be discussed in a panel featuring prominent figures such as James Weddup and Jordan McGarry.
The festival will conclude with a cine-concert finale, featuring Lebanese musicians Fadi Tabbal and Julia Sabra performing a live re-score of Alfred Hitchcock's "Easy Virtue." This event highlights the festival's ambition to build cultural bridges through cinema, promoting co-production and creative industry exchange in line with the GREAT Fund's objectives.