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Georges Khabbaz is starring in Yunan, directed by Amir Fakhr el-Din, which will compete at the 75th Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale). The film, featuring a stellar cast including Hanna Schygulla, is vying for the Golden Bear award, one of cinema’s highest honors.
The film Yunan, written directed by Amir Fakhr el-Din and starring Georges Khabbaz and Hanna Schygulla, will compete in the official selection at the 75th Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale). This prestigious competition positions Yunan for the coveted Golden Bear award alongside globally acclaimed films. As one of the world’s top three festivals, alongside Cannes and Venice, Berlinale has consistently celebrated outstanding cinematic achievements.
Georges Khabbaz, renowned for his genuine and captivating performances, continues to inspire audiences with his dynamic talent. Whether on stage or screen, he keeps viewers hanging onto every word, laugh and emotion, showcasing the depth of his artistry.
In Yunan, Khabbaz leads a stellar cast, including Hanna Schygulla, a legend of European cinema, and Game of Thrones alumni Tom Malashikha and Sibylle Kiekely. Other notable names include Ali Suleiman and Nidal Ashkar. The film, now in the running for multiple Berlinale awards, also makes Khabbaz a contender for Best Actor.
This milestone comes shortly after Khabbaz starred in Mille Secrets Mille Dangers, filmed last summer in Canada and directed by Oscar nominee Philippe Falardeau. His international recognition underscores years of perseverance in a tumultuous homeland.
Close-Up on Georges Khabbaz
A multi-talented writer, comedian, musician, director and theater professor, Georges Khabbaz’s work bridges decades while reflecting Lebanon’s collective memory. Georges Khabbaz has a talent that transcends time, capturing the essence of a nation through his work. Humble and grounded, he carries a constant smile, captivating audiences on stage and on screen with his profound yet humorous words and his socially relevant themes. It is no surprise that his work has once again received international acclaim.
Always grounded and approachable, Georges Khabbaz tackles poignant social themes through sharp scripts and heartfelt performances. His career, which began in 1994, was shaped by a love of storytelling that first emerged at age four during a school play.
From his celebrated roles in Under the Bombs (2007) by Philippe Aractingi and Siliana (2008) by Hatem Ali, to writing and starring in Ghadi (2012) and Waynon (2013), Georges Khabbaz has left an indelible mark on Lebanese cinema. Notably, he participated in the co-writing of Capharnaüm (2018) with Nadine Labaki and starred in the Arabic adaptation of Perfect Strangers (2022) by Wissam Smayra. Following a creative pause during Lebanon’s unrest and the COVID-19 pandemic, Georges Khabbaz returned to the stage with Kayal Sahra, symbolically promising never to abandon art and its role in self-expression.
After years of artistic perseverance in a country where chaos often prevails, Georges Khabbaz has earned a well-deserved reward, propelling his work to the Berlinale. His recognition at the Berlinale stands as a testament to his commitment to art, stage and cinema.
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