ENCOUNTERS 2024: SAMAR.. BEFORE THE FINAL PICTURE

Every year since our founding in 2010, The Bioscope has proudly hosted screenings of The Encounters South African International Documentary Festival. Now over 25 years old as a festival, Encounters returns to The Bioscope once again with screenings from 21 June - 30 July. Tickets are R80. For more information on the festival as a whole, please visit encounters.co.za

SEE THE FULL BIOSCOPE SCHEDULE FOR ENCOUNTERS HERE

SAMAR.. BEFORE THE FINAL PICTURE

Aya Ellboudy | Egypt | 2024 | 83 min

Set between Cairo and Dubai, Samar..Before the Final Picture explores a story of resilience and healing through Samar, a victim of an acid attack who devotes herself to helping another woman that has suffered the same fate. Over the course of five years, Samar, who was violently assaulted by her ex-partner, assists Sanaa as she undergoes treatment and reconstructive surgery for her wounds. By recounting their shared experiences, the women explore the physical, psychological, emotional, and economic burdens placed onto them as a result of the attacks they suffered. Samar..Before the Final Picture examines the implications of a patriarchal society and violence towards women, by drawing on the vulnerable personal stories and relationships within the film. The film portrays a beautiful and strong perception of womanhood, self-acceptance and healing, whilst assessing the extent to which justice and support is offered to victims.