Oscar Nominee Labaki: Success Was Emotionally Devastating

Nadine Labaki, the acclaimed director behind the historic Arabic film 'Capernaum,' shared that her phenomenal success in 2019, marked by an Oscar nomination and numerous awards, was paradoxically her most challenging year emotionally. The film, which explored the plight of refugee children in Beirut and achieved over $68 million globally, faced accusations of exploitation despite the production team's efforts to support the lead actor and other children involved after filming.

The intense emotional toll of 'Capernaum' and its subsequent acclaim led Labaki to step back from directing. She focused on acting, seeking less stressful roles on set. This period allowed her to recover emotionally and prepare for her next directorial endeavor. She has now begun writing a new film, aiming to shoot next year, signaling a return to her passion after a seven-year hiatus.

While Labaki's previous works centered on Lebanese society, her upcoming project is set to expand its geographical focus. Without revealing specifics, she indicated that the film might be set in different countries, reflecting a broader scope for her storytelling. This new venture promises to be another significant undertaking, requiring time and the right creative mood to bring to fruition.