Mountain Boy

Directors:

Writers:

Zainab Sheheen

Nancy Paton, Raihana Al Haishim

Producers:

Nancy Paton, Meredith Brett

Run Time:

1:33:00

Awarded for the following Category(s):

Awarded Category(s)

MOUNTAIN BOY is a live-action, feel-good, family-adventure, feature film based on the award-winning United Arab Emirates (UAE) children’s book THE BOY WHO KNEW THE MOUNTAINS by Dr. Michele Ziolkowski. Suhail, a young boy with Autism, flees to live in the mountains after his father shuns him, not understanding his determination. Pinned with the confusing sadness that his mother died in childbirth with him, Suhail makes the epic journey, with his new friend Barakah, an Arabian Saluki, to find acceptance, family, and redemption. The film is a passionate exploration of the world of neurodiverse people to honour the entire human experience and understand there are many ways to be alive.

Submitter Statement

When I read the book THE BOY WHO KNEW THE MOUNTAINS and met with writer/producer Nancy Paton, I was inspired by the idea of portraying the journey of an autistic boy. It was an opportunity to weave a narrative that not only entertains but also fosters understanding and empathy. The story is also a big step for the UAE's film industry, as well as the autistic community.

My initial vision for MOUNTAIN BOY was to create a film that seamlessly blends a heartwarming family story with the breathtaking landscapes of the UAE, especially the enchanting beauty of Fujairah and Abu Dhabi. I wanted the visual elements to complement and enhance the emotional depth of the narrative, providing audiences with a unique cinematic experience.

While adapting MOUNTAIN BOY for the screen, I engaged in insightful conversations with the book’s author, Michele Ziolkowski. She pointed out cultural concerns from the book that we, as locals, normalize. For me, this was a moment of realization that our culture carries a lot of special meanings.

I would like MOUNTAIN BOY viewers to take away the power of understanding, empathy and unconditional love and acceptance of others. The story fosters a greater appreciation for the diversity of human experiences, especially those individuals with autism.

Mountain Boy is the feature film directorial debut of Emirati director Zainab Shaheen. Born in Fujairah, she is committed to empowering Emirati through uniquely Emirati stories.

Zainab's previous short films include Journey of Hope, Dates to Mars, Fujairah Vlog, and UAE 2071.

Zainab has also worked with The British Council on an international collaboration with Manchester Metropolitan University, spotlighting her game development, social media, and digital filmmaking experience.

Key Cast

Naser Al Messabi - "Suhail"

Reem Al Messabi - "Moza"

Ahmed Al Jasmi - "Suhails Grandfather"

Belal Abdullah - Abdullah"

Saeed Almesmari - "Muhammad"

Ahmad Abdulrazzak - "Mansour"

Other Credits

Lead Artists: Saleh

Cinematographer: Denson Baker

Production Design: Pranali Diwadkar