Salaud Morisset Acquires World Sales Rights for Rakan Mayasi's Debut Feature 'Yesterday the Eye Didn't Sleep'
Salaud Morisset, an international sales company, has taken on the global distribution rights for Palestinian director Rakan Mayasi's first feature-length movie, "Yesterday the Eye Didn't Sleep." This strategic move comes just before the film's world premiere at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival in the Un Certain Regard category, highlighting its potential for international acclaim.
The narrative of "Yesterday the Eye Didn't Sleep" unfolds within a Bedouin community in Lebanon's Bekaa Valley, centering on the disappearance of a young woman named Gamra. She stands accused of torching the vehicle of a man she loved, who ultimately chose another for marriage. Mayasi expressed that the film emerged from fragmented impressions—actions, expressions, and periods of silence—rather than a conventional screenplay, aiming to portray a world where reality and folklore intertwine, and where a woman's absence can reveal the unseen societal structures. François Morisset, the founder of Salaud Morisset, lauded Mayasi's creation as a striking and unique debut, affirming his emergence as a compelling voice in cinema. He believes the film's selection for Un Certain Regard signifies both critical acknowledgment and strong international market potential, combining a bold artistic vision with universally resonant themes that promise broad appeal.
This collaboration between Salaud Morisset and Rakan Mayasi is a continuation of their successful prior ventures, which include Mayasi's acclaimed short films such as "Bonboné," "Trumpets in the Sky," and "The Key." These shorts have collectively been featured in over 400 film festivals globally, including renowned events like Locarno, Toronto, and New York. "Yesterday the Eye Didn't Sleep," produced by Atata, is a multi-national co-production involving Belgium, Lebanon, Palestine, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, with additional support from various film funds and federations.
The journey of every film, from its initial concept to global distribution, is a testament to the power of storytelling and the collaborative spirit of cinema. Such endeavors not only bring unique perspectives to diverse audiences but also foster cultural understanding and appreciation for artistic expression from around the world. Mayasi's work, supported by dedicated partners, exemplifies how creative vision can transcend borders and deeply connect with the human experience.
