As I Open My Eyes

This music-filled, French-Tunisian production is set in Tunis, summer 2010, a few months before the Jasmine Revolution, and depicts the clash between culture and family as seen through the eyes of a young Tunisian woman balancing the traditional expectations of her family with her creative life, as the singer in a politically charged rock band. Director Leyla Bouzid's feature offers a nuanced portrait of the implications of the Arab Spring on the lives of young people in the region, while also creating a complex story about a young woman using art to transform her reality. (Unrated, 102 min.)

“Ms. Medhaffer has the charisma, if not the voice, of a young Joan Baez.” — New York Times.

“Best fictional film yet about the Arab Spring.” — Indiewire.

“Showcases a standout lead performance by first-timer Baya Medhaffar.” — Variety.

View Trailer

These screenings are part of Cinema Explorations, a venture of the Maine Film Center dedicated to fostering the voices and choices of our community of film lovers. The winter film series is programmed by a local, volunteer steering committee. Its goals are to present works of cinema from around the world that will enrich, educate and entertain filmgoers and encourage the shared experience of communal film viewing and thoughtful discussion.

Individual tickets to Cinema Explorations screenings are $8 each; a festival pass, which admits one to all 6 films, costs $30. Railroad Square Cinema punch cards, complimentary tickets, and Maine Film Center membership benefits may also be used. Bagel Mainea will provide free bagels!