Shame

This film will be presented during the La Nuit de la danse event on March 21^st, 2025 at Théâtre Outremont.

In the 19^th century, in the Levant region, Salma Zahore takes part in a photo session with her parents and neighbors, using the long-exposure technique. At the end of the session, she decides to remove her coat, revealing her body — unaware of the provocative chaos this gesture would cause. Confronted with the shame reflected in the eyes of those around her, she finds herself at odds with societal expectations. This action, perceived as an act of defiance or transgression, highlights the tensions between individual freedom and the social norms of the time.
A beautiful short film that blends dance and fashion.

Director’s statement:
In this film, titled shame, the complex concept of shame is explored within the context of Arab culture, specifically focusing on its impact on societal norms, gender roles, and expressions of identity. The word shame is commonly used in the Arab world to dictate a social norm not to be transgressed in various situations, so much so that shame is ever-present in our surroundings.
Set against a backdrop of recreated 19^th-century scenes from the Levant region, the film is made in a vertical (9:16) format to respect the aspect ratio of photos from that era, adding authenticity to the narrative. It also introduces a modern and queer perspective, challenging traditional narratives and expectations.
The story revolves around Salma Zahore, who embodies different personas representing various societal roles and expectations. Through Salma’s interactions with herself as well as with neighbors and family members, the film delves into the rigid boundaries dictated by the concept of shame and the consequences of challenging these norms.
The use of AI-transformed voices adds a surreal and futuristic element to the narrative, emphasizing the timeless relevance of the themes explored. As Salma sheds layers, both metaphorically and literally, revealing her true self, societal reactions escalate into unnecessary drama, highlighting the tendency to amplify minor transgressions in the name of shame.
Through this artistic exploration, the film prompts viewers to reconsider their understanding of shame, societal expectations, and the evolving nature of cultural identities. It challenges the notion of shame as a tool for social control while celebrating individuality and the diverse expressions of human identity.
- Hadi Moussally