1948-2019

Jocelyn Saab, from displaced peoples to exiled fighters, cities at war, and a Fourth World without a voice.

Jocelyne Saab’s movies, made from 1948 to 2019, are important to Lebanese cinema and are known for their deep, thought-provoking style. Her films are poetic and show a unique vision of Lebanon, especially how she shares stories of those who have lost their homes or can’t speak for themselves. She began as a journalist and later made powerful documentaries about Beirut after the Lebanese Civil War. Her work includes a trilogy about Beirut that shows the city’s struggles and resilience.

The first film of the trilogy, “Beirut, Never Again” (1976), combines music, a poetic narrative, and scenes of a war-torn city. Children are seen in roles no child should be in due to the conflict.

The second, “Letter from Beirut” (1978), has a dream-like quality and offers a glimpse of hope. Saab explores a changed Beirut, talking to locals and reflecting on the impact of war.

The third, “Beirut My City” (1982), is Saab’s most significant work. She revisits her old home after Israel’s invasion and captures hopeful moments amid destruction.

A collection of Saab’s fifty-year career, including images from her films and photographs with writings by Etel Adnan and Elias Sambar, will be sold at the film screening.