Sun 24th Feb 2.00pm - Ciné lumière
+ Q&A with dir Moufida Tlatli & Malu Halasa.

Tunisia / France 1994. With Amel Hedhili, Najia Ouerghi, Hend Sabri. 127 min. 12A

Moufida Tlatli's magnificent debut focuses on a group of servant women confined in the palace of the country's last princes during the final days of French colonial rule. The film effectively conveys the oppressive opulence of the palace and the resilience of the servant women: the women are sensual, strong and full of humour. Fine performances, sumptuous mise-en-scene and haunting music, by Anouar Brahem, makes Silences... an exceptional work and one that lingers in the mind.

Winner, Caméra d'Or, Cannes Film Festival 1994. Winner, Golden Tanit, Carthage 1994