Episode 48: Filmmaker Bassel Ghandour on Authentic Representation and Storytelling in Film
In the Season 8 finale, we’re joined by Oscar-nominated and BAFTA-winning writer and director Bassel Ghandour.
Bassel shares his insights on filmmaking in the Arab world and the ongoing struggle for authentic representation in Western cinema, where stories are often distorted or oversimplified.
We explore the making of his acclaimed feature films Theeb and The Alleys, and he speaks to the vital role research plays in his storytelling.
The conversation also turns to the future of cinema in a landscape increasingly shaped by streaming platforms, blockbuster formulas, and algorithm-driven content.
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About
After graduating from the School of Cinematic Arts at The University of Southern California, Bassel wrote and produced the oscar nominated and Bafta winning film Theeb. His directorial debut, The Alleys, premiered at the Piazza Grande of the Locarno Film Festival before going on to play at the BFI London, Rotterdam and Red Sea Film Festivals.
The film later trended on Netflix in the Arab World. Bassel also directed Chasing Dreams, a six-part sports docu-series following five Syrian footballers who turn professional in Brazil. Bassel lives in London where he is developing a slate of projects, among them a feature in development with the BFI, and Hallfighter, a London set boxing film.
Learn more about his work:
https://basselg.com/