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Confronting the beast

Synopsis of "Confronting the Beast"

"Confronting the Beast" is a thought-provoking documentary that delves deep into the heart of Lebanon's socio-economic landscape, offering a unique perspective on the power of solidarity and cooperation. This film takes viewers on a journey through the diverse regions of Lebanon, introducing them to eight local producers who are at the forefront of combating economic exploitation and political manipulation.

As the narrative unfolds, the documentary showcases the personal and collective struggles of these individuals who, despite facing daunting challenges, strive to establish a community-supported economy that is equitable and sustainable. Through their stories, "Confronting the beast" sheds light on the adverse effects of unfair economic policies and the pervasive influence of clientelism on the lives of ordinary Lebanese citizens.

The film emphasizes the strength found in unity and the impact of local producers, as these producers work tirelessly to create alternatives to the existing system. They demonstrate how cooperation and mutual support can lead to meaningful change and highlight the importance of establishing cooperatives as a way to break free from the cycles of dependency and corruption.

"Confronting the Beast" is not just a documentary; it's a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the Lebanese people. It is a call to action for solidarity, social justice, and economic reform, urging viewers to consider the role they can play in building a more just and sustainable future.

  • Monah Amin Achkar
    Director
  • The Solidarity Directory (Daleel Tadamon)
    Producer
  • Ryzomes
    Producer
  • Maamoun Bou Chakra
    Key Cast
  • Serge Harfoush
    Key Cast
  • Nahida Salha
    Key Cast
  • Henry Eid
    Key Cast
  • Dania Karkafi
    Key Cast
  • Edith Tegho
    Key Cast
  • Georgio Germanos
    Key Cast
  • Amir Moghrabi
    Key Cast
  • Denise Tegho
    Key Cast
  • IAM Production
    Video Production
  • Project Title (Original Language):
    بوج الوحش
  • Project Type:
    Documentary
  • Genres:
    Agro-food, rural development, environmental
  • Runtime:
    42 minutes 31 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    June 1, 2023
  • Production Budget:
    10,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    Lebanon
  • Country of Filming:
    Lebanon
  • Language:
    Arabic
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
  • Digital Cinema Package:
    Unavailable
Director Biography - Monah Amin Achkar

Engaging in theater arts from a young age, I explored acting, directing, and dancing, which ultimately sparked my fascination with the transformative power of film.
After completing my education in Audio/Visual studies in Lebanon, I graduated in 2014, equipped with the tools to bring my cinematic visions to life. Drawn to the profound messages and societal reflections inherent in filmmaking, I recognized its ability to illuminate unseen truths and provoke meaningful discourse.
My commitment to capturing the essence of Lebanese culture and societal narratives led me to embark on various projects, including three documentaries filmed within Lebanon and numerous short documentaries
dating back to 2017. Each endeavor serves as a testament to my dedication to shedding light on the intricacies of our shared human experience.
In addition to my directorial pursuits, I am proud to serve as the co-founder of IAM Production, a video production company based in Lebanon. Through IAM Production, I aim to further amplify voices and stories that deserve to be heard, showcasing the diverse tapestry of our world through the lens of film. Furthermore, I am also the co-founder of Mindloop Media, a video production company situated in Canada. With Mindloop Media, I am dedicated to expanding our creative endeavors internationally, collaborating with diverse talents to craft compelling visual narratives that resonate on a global scale. Together, these ventures reflect my unwavering commitment to leveraging the power of storytelling to bridge cultures, provoke thought, and inspire change across borders.
For me, filmmaking is more than just a medium of entertainment; it is a vessel for preserving the past, interpreting the present, and envisioning the future. With every project, I strive to harness the profound potential of cinema to inspire empathy, foster understanding, and ignite positive change within our society.

Monah E l Achkar Film director. 2024

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

I am Monah El Achkar, a Lebanese film director hailing from Khreibeh Al Chouf in Mount Lebanon. My journey into the world of Movies began with a deep-rooted passion for storytelling cultivated during my upbringing.