Tunisian director Amel Guellaty has received her first major award for her debut feature film WHERE THE WIND COMES FROM, winning the Golden Bee for Best Film at the Mediterrane Film Festival held in Malta from June 21st to 29th.
 
The film held its world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival and has since been showcased at major international festivals, including Rotterdam and Istanbul, receiving praise for its emotional depth, strong performances, and striking visuals.
 
WHERE THE WIND COMES FROM follows 19-year-old Alyssa and shy 23-year-old Mehdi as they dream of escaping their reality. Upon discovering a contest offering a chance to flee, they embark on a road trip to southern Tunisia, overcoming several obstacles along the way.
 
WHERE THE WIND COMES FROM has received wide praise from critics worldwide for its strong story, memorable characters, and beautiful visuals. Reviewers say director Amel Guellaty skillfully mixes themes of friendship, identity, and social issues in a road trip story.
 
Variety called it “a visually striking work” that blends humor and emotion, while Cineuropa said it “captures the uncertainty, recklessness, and hope of young people on the cusp of transformation,” balancing an exciting story with deep meaning. Many other reviews have also praised the film.
 
The film is written and directed by Amel Guellaty and produced by Asma Chiboub, of Tunisia’s Atlas Vision. It stars Slim Baccar, Eya Bellagha, Sondos Belhassen, and Lobna Noomane.
 
Cinematography is by Frida Marzouk, with editing by Amel Guellaty, Ghalya Lacroix, and Malek Kammoun. Music is composed by Omar Aloulou, and sound is by Aymen Labidi. MAD Distribution handles the film’s distribution and sales in the Arab World.