Locarno Opens with Resignation Syndrome Drama

The 79th Locarno Film Festival has opened with "The Green Eyes," a drama that uses adventure to explore the serious issue of resignation syndrome. This rare condition causes psychologically traumatized refugee children to fall into a comatose state.

The film centers on an 11-year-old girl named Chaya, whose family faces deportation. When her older brother Nour falls into a deep sleep, Chaya embarks on a quest into his dreams to awaken him. This narrative highlights the power of imagination and resilience in children facing adversity.

Directors Fanny Liatard and Jérémy Trouilh were inspired by accounts of children experiencing this syndrome and their surreal dreamscapes. They aimed to combine dramatic elements with an adventure narrative, viewing the world through a child's perspective to evoke empathy.

The movie, a co-production between France, Belgium, and Sweden, features Douae Butarbuch M'Zaouki in her acting debut as Chaya. The directors emphasized finding a young lead who could convey the character's profound inner light. They highlighted the importance of solidarity and collective strength in their artistic vision.

"The Green Eyes" seeks to reawaken empathy for individuals often dehumanized in public discourse. By focusing on a child's journey, the film challenges viewers to reconsider their perspectives on migration and the impact of political decisions on vulnerable populations.