Prominent Syrian actor Duraid Laham has completed his upcoming film “Al Aba Al Sighar” (Young Parents). Laham wrote and directed the film, and plays the leading role alongside Egyptian actor Hannan Turk.
The film was shot on location in Cairo and Damascus, and a number of locations around the Arab world. Production Company ‘Nakheel’ has yet to announce a release date for the film.
Duraid revealed that the film features a number of songs sung by Hannan, one with children, and one number includes the starring cast of the film.
According to the London based, Elaph, the script presents a number of possible solutions to social issues affecting the Arab world.
Hannan plays the role of an Egyptian who comes to Syria on a mission to preserve historical places as part of her job with UNESCO. While in Syria she can not afford to live alone, and arranges to rent a room in a local’s home.
The home belongs to a struggling single parent trying to complete his education, played by Duraid, and Hannan becomes like an older sister to his children.
Hannan stated that when Duraid offered her the role she did not hesitate to accept, explaining that it is an honor to work with such a well renowned actor and she believes the film will bolster her career
Duraid was recently stripped of his title of ‘UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador to the Middle East’ for openly stating his opinion regarding “terrorism” in the region.
The actor publicly stated that he does not consider operations carried out by Iraqis and Palestinians who are defending their lands to be “terrorism,” but instead sees their actions as attempts to defend their homelands against “occupying forces.”
The actor revealed that he does not object to renouncing his position, because be firmly believes that a person must be free to openly express their opinion, without being pressured to act against his or her principles.
