Atlanta Jewish Film Festival: Eid

In this groundbreaking, sensitive portrayal of Bedouin life, a young theater artist struggles to pursue his dreams within the constraints of his traditional society. Eid (Shadi Mar’i), a construction worker from Rahat, grapples with childhood trauma while secretly writing a play with the help of an actress in Paris. As his parents arrange an unwelcome marriage, he withdraws emotionally and strikes a deal to preserve his freedom. Torn between desire and cultural expectations, Eid faces pressure that threatens to stifle his voice. The first major feature by a Bedouin-Israeli filmmaker, this potent story of self-discovery won top prizes at the Jerusalem Film Festival, with Shadi Mar’i becoming one of the few Arab-Israelis to win Best Actor at the Israeli Academy Awards.