The Syrian film Windows of the Soul shines at the FAMA Festival in Canada.

The Syrian film Windows of the Soul shines at the FAMA Festival in Canada.
Jamal Suleiman

Laith Hajo: "Windows of the Soul portrays Syria as seen through the eyes of its people" Laith Hajo: "The film is a title deeply rooted in the essence and richness of history"

The distinguished Syrian film “Windows of the Soul” is set to be screened at the FAMA Festival of Arabic Music and Arts 2025 in Canada, in an event that celebrates authentic Arab art and presents global audiences with stories weaving Syria’s rich and deeply rooted cultural history.

Syrian director Laith Hajo shared a clip of the film on his official Instagram account, accompanied by a caption: “Through captivating visual storytelling and a cinematic language that transcends words, ‘Windows of the Soul’ portrays Syria as seen through the eyes of its people, guided by the performance of actor Jamal Suliman. This film is deeply rooted in the essence and richness of history, where eyes are not mere features, but symbols and reflections that speak beyond what words can express.”

An Artistic Experience Beyond Traditional Documentation

Produced in 2011, the film blends visual narrative with historical and intellectual depth, offering a fresh perspective on Syrian civilization beyond conventional documentary approaches.

Running 63 minutes, the film features a rich cinematic language with detailed visuals and sound, written by Omar Abu Saada, directed by Laith Hajo and Ammar Al-Aani, with cinematography and lighting by Dory Aoun, and produced by Tamim Hawarneh. The orchestra was led by Misak Baghdoudarian, and the original score composed by Hazem Al-Aani.

Jamal Suliman..A Guide Through History

Actor Jamal Suliman takes viewers on a journey across five pivotal civilizational stages: the agricultural revolution, the rise of cities and writing, the flourishing of trade, the emergence of Christianity, and the cultural achievements of Islamic civilization.

The film moves through Syria’s archaeological and historical sites, from the city of Ugarit and Ebla’s clay tablets, to the statues of Mari and the tombs of the Palmyrenes, and from Aleppo’s ancient markets to the Mediterranean coast. This journey reveals deep connections between past and present through eyes that tell the untold stories of the soul.

FAMA: A Platform for Cultural and Artistic Exchange in Canada

The FAMA Festival is held annually in the Greater Toronto Area, Ontario, and serves as a unique platform celebrating Arab arts and culture. The festival features musical, cinematic, and theatrical performances, offering Canadian and international audiences the chance to explore Arab heritage with a contemporary spirit. It hosts artists from around the world, fostering cultural dialogue and showcasing creative experiences that represent Arab identity at its finest.