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2w ago

Berlinale Competition Debut for Haroun’s ‘Soumsoum, the Night of the Stars’ Draws Split Early Reviews

Critics highlight a myth‑infused realism that frames social tensions in contemporary Chad.

Director Mahamat-Saleh Haroun, cast members Maimouna Miawama and Achouackh Abakar Souleymane, director of photography Mathieu Giombini and producer Florence Stern pose during a photocall to promote the movie 'Soumsoum, la nuit des astres (Soumsoum, the Night of the Stars)' at the 76th Berlinale International Film Festival in Berlin, Germany February 19, 2026. REUTERS/Nadja Wohlleben
Mahamat-Saleh Haroun • Director of Soumsoum, the Night of the Stars
Director Mahamat-Saleh Haroun poses during a photocall to promote the movie 'Soumsoum, la nuit des astres (Soumsoum, the Night of the Stars)' at the 76th Berlinale International Film Festival in Berlin, Germany February 19, 2026. REUTERS/Nadja Wohlleben
Director of photography Mathieu Giombini attends a press conference to promote the movie 'Soumsoum, la nuit des astres (Soumsoum, the Night of the Stars)' at the 76th Berlinale International Film Festival in Berlin, Germany February 19, 2026. REUTERS/Nadja Wohlleben

Overview

  • Mahamat-Saleh Haroun’s French–Chadian feature premieres in competition at the 76th Berlin International Film Festival.
  • The film is set on the Ennedi plateau after torrential rains and follows Kellou, a teenage seer, and her connection with the ostracized Aya.
  • Variety notes moments of beauty but criticizes lethargic pacing and limited narrative follow‑through.
  • Cineuropa praises a restrained, poetic mise‑en‑scène and rich symbolism engaging patriarchy, syncretism, and xenophobia.
  • Pili Films produced with Chad’s Goï‑Goï Productions, with Films Boutique handling worldwide sales.