Behind the Lines is part of the six-part documentary series Draw for Change! by Vincent Coen and Guillaume Vandenberghe about six female comic artists from around the world who question the red lines and taboos of their society. The film was screened in the official competition for documentary series at the Cannes Film Festival in 2023 and at the Swiss festival Visions du Réel.

Belgium, France, Luxembourg, Germany, Netherlands 2023, 70 min., OmeU, Director: Alisar Hasan, Alaa Amer

Amany Al-Ali is Syria's first female cartoonist and lives in her father's house in Idlib, where she draws the life of her city, a bastion of jihadist groups that have been trying to overthrow President Assad since 2011. Although her artwork has been exhibited in galleries in France and Italy, it has never been shown in Syria. Despite the recognition for her art, she faces threats, condemnations and humiliation, which makes her think about leaving the country.

The film records her efforts to organize her first exhibition in Idlib. This experience forces her to confront the harsh reality of a city characterized by bombings and male interference. As she organizes drawing classes for women and girls, comforts her little niece and shares her story with the documentary film crew, Amany's confidence for the future gradually fades.

An EUNIC event by the Representation of Flanders in Germany (Embassy of Belgium), the Institut français Berlin and the Czech Center Berlin.

More info about the movie & trailer here!