Ali Helali, Yassine Samouni
Writer, theatre director and filmmaker Lotfi Achour (Burning Hope) combines social and magical realism in this stark and powerful coming-of-age drama, based on a true story. Rooted in the turbulent reality of rural Tunisia, Red Path follows a young shepherd coming to terms with trauma after witnessing a brutal crime.
When 13-year-old shepherd Ashraf (Ali Hleli) and his cousin Nizar (Yassine Samouni) head to the mountains with their flock, the day ends in tragedy at the hands of jihadists. Ashraf returns home alone and finds himself struggling to cope with the psychological aftermath while his family strives for justice. Featuring remarkable performances from its young cast, this is tough but essential filmmaking and an indelible snapshot of the impact of conflict on children.