A versatile filmmaker and video artist, Danielle Arbid has built an internationally acclaimed body of work that seamlessly traverses fiction, first-person documentaries, and video essays. She gained early recognition on the global festival circuit with her documentaries ALONE WITH WAR and CONVERSATIONS DE SALON, winning the Silver and Gold Leopards at Locarno, respectively. Her narrative features have been staples at the Cannes Film Festival, with IN THE BATTLEFIELDS — winner of the Grand Prix at the Milan Film Festival — and A LOST MAN, both premiering at the Directors’ Fortnight. Arbid’s later works, including PARISIENNE and SIMPLE PASSION, further solidified her standing, with the latter being part of Cannes’ Official Selection. A recipient of the prestigious Albert Londres Prize, she was also named a Chevalier of the Order of Arts and Letters for her significant contributions to cinema.
Berlinale Panorama Opener: Arbid’s latest feature, ONLY REBELS WIN, made its world premiere as the opening film of the Panorama strand at the 76th Berlin International Film Festival. Set in a fractured, contemporary Beirut, the film follows Suzanne, a Palestinian widow who rescues a young, undocumented Sudanese man from a racist attack. Their subsequent romance defies deep-seated societal taboos.
Critical and Artistic Acclaim: The film received widespread critical praise for its courageous cinematic moves and sharp social satire. Critics lauded Arbid’s creative visual aesthetic, which she maintained despite production challenges. Described by Screen International and Cineuropa as a “tender love story” that successfully balances personal intimacy with political commentary.
