Antonine University (UA) proudly celebrates the international recognition of “Lines We Cross” (فرقت ع ملة), a standout senior film directed by alumna Samah Kanaan, which has achieved remarkable success on the global stage.

At the Barcelona Indie Filmmakers Festival (BARCIFF 2025), the film earned the Best Actress Award for the powerful performance of Mirna Bou Abboud and also received a nomination for Best Director, underscoring its bold cinematic vision and emotional depth. This marks the first international award win for a UA senior film — a milestone that reflects the creative excellence and critical engagement fostered at the Faculty of Information and Communication.

About the Film

“Lines We Cross” is an 11-minute Lebanese short film that tells the story of Raya, a young woman daring to pursue love across sectarian boundaries. By confronting entrenched norms, the film explores themes of resistance, identity, and emotional resilience, shedding light on the struggles of a tradition-bound society.
Cast: Mirna Bou Abboud, Elie Mitri, and Joseph Sassine

International Selections

Beyond its success in Barcelona, “Lines We Cross” continues to resonate across the globe with Official Selections at:

• Alexandria Mediterranean Film Festival, Egypt
• Lebanese Film Festival, Australia
• Lebanese Film Festival of France, Paris

These achievements highlight the international reach of UA’s Department of Audiovisual Studies and the ability of its students and alumni to share stories that transcend borders and inspire audiences worldwide.

Congratulations to Samah Kanaan and the entire team for this landmark accomplishment, which paves the way for more UA films to shine internationally.