Darin Sallam’s “Churching of Women” Wins Jordan’s First APM Award
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Jordanian Filmmaker Darin J. Sallam Breaks Ground at Busan’s Asian Project Market with “Churching of Women”
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Darin J.Sallam’s historical drama,”Churching of women,” marks the first Jordanian project selected for the prestigious Asian Project Market (APM) at the Busan International Film Festival,signaling a growing presence for Arab cinema on the international stage.
What is “Churching of Women”?
“Churching of Women” is the second feature film project from Jordanian filmmaker Darin J. sallam, following her critically acclaimed debut, “Farha.” Variety reports the film centers on the life of a pioneering female author in the levant region during the colonial era,specifically 1938. The story explores themes of injustice and the challenges faced by women navigating patriarchal power structures.
Sallam described the project as deeply personal, stating, It became personal to me when I felt the responsibility as a woman and as an Arab to make this film and to use cinema as my tool to do her justice.
” (Variety). This suggests a strong commitment to amplifying marginalized voices and historical narratives.
The asian project Market and its meaning
The Asian Project Market (APM), held annually during the Busan International Film Festival, is a highly selective co-production platform. It connects filmmakers with potential investors, producers, and distributors from around the world. Selection for the APM provides meaningful exposure and funding opportunities for projects in growth. According to the Busan International Film Festival website, the APM aims to foster collaboration and support the growth of the Asian film industry.
Sallam’s inclusion marks a historic moment, as “Churching of women” is the first jordanian film to be chosen for the APM. This achievement highlights the increasing recognition of Jordanian cinema and the talent of its filmmakers on the international scene. Jordan’s film industry, while relatively young, has been gaining momentum in recent years, with films like ”Farha” garnering international attention.
Historical Context: The Levant in 1938
The Levant region in 1938 – encompassing present-day Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan – was a complex and politically charged area under french and British Mandate rule.This period was marked by growing nationalist movements, increasing tensions between Arab and Jewish populations, and the looming shadow of World War II. The colonial context profoundly shaped social structures and power dynamics, creating an environment where women faced significant obstacles to achieving equality and recognition.
The story of a female author navigating this landscape offers a unique lens through which to examine the social and political realities of the time. Exploring the challenges she faced - likely including censorship,discrimination,and limited access to education and resources – can provide valuable insights into the struggles for women’s rights and artistic expression in the region.