Teacher Amal not only bears the word 'hope' in her name. In her class at a suburban Belgian school, where a large proportion of the students are from a Muslim background, she uses literature and poetry to raise the critical awareness of her students – a class that is often divided in its views. Her commitment does not go without consequences. Amal increasingly challenges her Muslim colleague. When her student Mouna comes out and is bullied by her classmates, the Muslim community increases the pressure. Amal stands by her side, determined to protect Mouna. But her commitment makes her a target of hostility herself. The film AMAL by Belgian-Moroccan director Jawad Rhalib addresses the conflicts between individual freedom and societal expectations in a multicultural environment. The lead role of Amal is played by renowned actress Lubna Azabal. AMAL celebrated its world premiere in October 2023 at the 50th Ghent Film Fest. At the 14th Magritte Awards, the film was nominated in nine categories, including Best Film and Best Director. Lubna Azabal was named Best Actress. She also won the award for Best Actress at the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival 2023.
When a student comes out as queer, her teacher is forced to choose between conservative religion and individual freedom.
Teacher Amal not only bears the word 'hope' in her name. In her class at a suburban Belgian school, where a large proportion of the students are from a Muslim background, she uses literature and poetry to raise the critical awareness of her students – a class that is often divided in its views.
Her commitment does not go without consequences. Amal increasingly challenges her Muslim colleague. When her student Mouna comes out and is bullied by her classmates, the Muslim community increases the pressure. Amal stands by her side, determined to protect Mouna. But her commitment makes her a target of hostility herself.
The film AMAL by Belgian-Moroccan director Jawad Rhalib addresses the conflicts between individual freedom and societal expectations in a multicultural environment. The lead role of Amal is played by renowned actress Lubna Azabal.
AMAL celebrated its world premiere in October 2023 at the 50th Ghent Film Fest. At the 14th Magritte Awards, the film was nominated in nine categories, including Best Film and Best Director. Lubna Azabal was named Best Actress. She also won the award for Best Actress at the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival 2023.