Tunisian filmmaker Ala Eddine Slim is set to showcase his latest feature, “Agora,” at Cairo’s Zawya Cinema, complete with English subtitles. This film promises a gripping blend of mystery and social commentary, offering viewers a suspenseful journey. Screenings are scheduled for Thursday, July 24, at 4:30 p.m., Saturday, July 26, at 7:00 p.m., and Tuesday, July 29, at 7:00 p.m.
“Agora” is a French-Tunisian co-production, funded by the Red Sea Fund and produced by Julie Viez’s Cinenovo in alliance with Slim’s Exit Productions. The film has garnered significant interest, securing 80% of its budget, totalling approximately $743,000.
The narrative of “Agora” unfolds in a secluded Tunisian town, where a bewildering occurrence occurs: people who had vanished for years begin reappearing. Their return ignites tensions within families and the broader community, prompting a local police inspector, Fathi, alongside his friend Amine, to investigate the mystery. The situation escalates further with the arrival of Omar, a police inspector from the capital, who works to unravel the strange events.
Slim describes “Agora” as reflecting on the past that evokes painful memories and highlights societal issues. The film explores themes of familial and community discord and the tension between urban existence and the natural world. A key element is the symbolic importance of the city’s public square, which serves as a backdrop for crucial decisions regarding the return of the refugees. The film features a visually rich narrative, enhanced by special effects and makeup, that merges elements of a thriller with an investigative plot.
As director and producer, Slim views “Agora” as an extension of his earlier works, revisiting recurring themes such as urban environments, forests, and animal life. The film addresses pressing contemporary issues, reflecting modern Tunisia’s complex realities and touching on economic, social, health, and security challenges.
