The film industry is abuzz with excitement as To a Land Unknown, the latest masterpiece by Palestinian-Danish director Mahdi Fleifel, continues to make waves on the global stage. This powerful refugee drama, which premiered at the prestigious Cannes Directors’ Fortnight, has now been sold to an impressive 40 territories worldwide. Its UK and Ireland release is set for Friday, marking a significant milestone in its journey to audiences across the globe. The film’s success is a testament to its gripping narrative and the universal themes it explores, resonating deeply with viewers from diverse backgrounds.
Behind this remarkable achievement is Salaud Morisset, a Paris- and Berlin-based sales and production house that has played a pivotal role in bringing To a Land Unknown to international audiences. The company has recently inked new deals with several major distributors, including Imovision (Brazil), Vertigo Media (Hungary, Czech Republic, Slovakia), Joint Entertainment (Taiwan), Real Fiction (Germany), Five Stars (Ex Yugoslavia), Filmtrade (Greece), Filmladen (Austria), Filmin (Spain), The Stone & The Plot (Portugal), and Falcon Pictures (Indonesia). These latest partnerships underscore the film’s global appeal and the industry’s confidence in its ability to connect with audiences worldwide.
In addition to these new deals, Salaud Morisset had previously secured partnerships with Conic (U.K.), Wildcard (Ireland), Eurozoom (France), Watermelon Pictures (U.S. and Canada), and Film Clinic (Arab territories). This extensive network of distributors ensures that To a Land Unknown will reach a broad and diverse audience, further cementing its reputation as a standout film of the year. The film’s global distribution is not only a commercial triumph but also a cultural victory, as it brings the poignant story of Palestinian refugees to viewers who may otherwise remain unaware of their struggles.
To a Land Unknown has already garnered significant acclaim on the festival circuit, screening at more than 100 festivals, including San Sebastian, Toronto, London, Thessaloniki, New Horizons, and Sarajevo. The film’s impressive run has been capped with over 20 awards, a clear indication of its artistic and emotional impact. This recognition is a tribute to Fleifel’s masterful storytelling and his ability to weave a tale that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.
At the heart of To a Land Unknown is the story of two Palestinian cousins, Chatila and Reda, who find themselves stranded in Athens, desperately seeking a way to reach Germany. Their journey takes a turn when Reda’s drug addiction leads to the loss of their hard-earned savings, which were meant to secure fake passports for their escape. In a bid to salvage their situation, Chatila devises a daring plan that involves posing as smugglers and taking hostages. This extreme measure is born out of their deteriorating circumstances, as they race against time to escape an environment that seems determined to crush their hopes. The film offers a raw and unflinching look at the desperation and resilience of those forced to flee their homes, seeking a better future in unfamiliar lands.
The production of To a Land Unknown is the result of a collaborative effort between several international partners. Geoff Arbourne at Inside Out Films, Fleifel’s Nakba FilmWorks, Salaud Morisset, Maria Drandaki at Homemade Films, and Layla Meijman and Maarten van der Ven at Studio Ruba have all contributed to bringing this important story to life. Their dedication to the project reflects the film’s significance and its potential to spark meaningful conversations about the global refugee crisis. As To a Land Unknown prepares for its UK and Ireland release, audiences are in for a compelling and thought-provoking cinematic experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
