Samir Habchi, born in Lebanon in 1961. He completed a Master of Fine Art at the Institute of Theatre and Cinematography in Directing in the Ukraine, USSR. He returned to Lebanon to write, direct and produce feature films and television. He has directed many films including Gebran Khalil Gebran (2008), Sayadat el Kasr (Lady of the Palace, 2003) and Meshwar (2005 - a feature drama showcased at the 2005 Sydney Arab Film Festival). His television credits from 1996 to 2007 include Hakaya, Al Hall Bi Idak, Al Sanina for NTV; Ras Beirut, Bent el Hay, Leamhet Hobb and Bawahir for LBCI and Darb Alfounoun for ART.

Samir Habchi flown by Etihad Airways from Beirut to Sydney as a guest of the festival to present his film and take part in a Q & A with audiences. Be sure to meet Samir on Friday 2 July at 8pm.

Director BEIRUT OPEN CITY- Doukhan bila Nar