Unleashing Emotion: ‘A State of Passion’ Set to Dazzle at Bulgarian Festival

“A State of Passion,” a poignant documentary co-directed by Lebanese filmmakers Carol Mansour and Muna Khalidi, is set to captivate audiences at the 18th edition of the International Festival of Red Cross and Health Films in Varna, Bulgaria. This remarkable film, produced in partnership with Iran’s Documentary and Experimental Film Center (DEFC), made its international debut at the renowned International Documentary Film Festival of Iran, also known as Cinema Verite, in Tehran last year. With its compelling narrative and emotional depth, “A State of Passion” has quickly gained recognition in the documentary film circuit.

This feature-length documentary sheds light on the harrowing experiences of British-Palestinian reconstructive surgeon Dr. Ghassan Abu Sittah, who faces the brutal realities of genocide in Gaza. It serves as an intimate portrayal of resilience, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment in one of the world’s most protracted humanitarian crises.

The film opens with the chilling aftermath of Dr. Abu Sittah’s 43 grueling days spent in the emergency wards of Al Shifa and Al Ahli hospitals. Here, he confronts relentless bombardments and overwhelming medical emergencies. His pale, shell-shocked visage, broadcasted globally, encapsulates both the emotional and physical toll taken by his experiences—a visual representation of hope and despair intertwined.

Key themes explored in “A State of Passion” include:

• Relentless Medical Challenges: The documentary details Dr. Abu Sittah’s tireless efforts to treat devastating injuries, such as lacerations and amputations performed without anesthesia.
• Heart-wrenching Stories: Viewers are introduced to orphaned children stripped of their families amidst the chaos of war.
• Emotional Landscape: The film delves into the emotional landscape of Dr. Abu Sittah’s family, who support him wholeheartedly while grappling with constant fear for his safety.

As audiences delve deeper into Dr. Abu Sittah’s compelling journey, they are confronted with profound questions: What drives a person to repeatedly return to such harrowing conditions? How does he find the strength to endure? The film explores the passion for Palestine that unifies Dr. Abu Sittah and his family, providing essential context for the sacrifices made and the motivations behind his humanitarian efforts.

Mansour and Khalidi, both filmmakers and close friends of the Abu Sittah family, infuse the narrative with a profound sense of empathy and understanding. They not only depict Dr. Abu Sittah’s struggles but also illuminate the emotional weight borne by his family, effectively showcasing the human cost of war on those left behind. Their dedication to documenting his story is palpable as they accompany him on journeys across various cities—Beirut, Amman, London, Kuwait, and Dubai—where conversations about hope, resistance, and identity unfold.

“A State of Passion” transcends traditional war documentaries by offering a deeply personal lens through which audiences can grasp the realities faced by individuals in conflict zones. It examines the intersection of medical humanitarianism and personal sacrifice, ultimately portraying a rich tapestry of resilience against the backdrop of adversity.

The film invites viewers to reflect on the concept of passion—not merely as an abstract notion but as a driving force that fuels acts of courage and compassion in the face of overwhelming odds. Through its raw and emotional storytelling, “A State of Passion” affirms the enduring strength of the human spirit in its quest for dignity, justice, and peace.

The 18th edition of the International Festival of Red Cross and Health Films will take place from June 12 to 20 in Varna, Bulgaria, promising an opportunity for audiences to engage with impactful narratives like that of “A State of Passion.” Don’t miss this chance to witness a film that not only highlights the struggles of one man but also reflects the broader human experience in times of conflict.

Photo: British-Palestinian surgeon Dr. Ghassan Abu Sittah in a scene from the documentary film “A State of Passion.”

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