Aleya | علية | Special Program – Queer Shorts

Available in 45d 20h 12m 11s

Available January 15, 2026 8:00 AM UTC

Already unlocked? for access

Give as a gift

This virtual screening is eligible for audience awards! Unlock it to cast your vote.

C$10After this content becomes available January 15th at 8:00 am UTC, you'll have 7 days to start watching. Once you begin, you'll have 7 days to finish watching. Need help?

This program compiles all LGBTQ+ short films from this year’s festival! These films spotlight the Vancouver queer community with love, and include intimate biographical documentaries, experimental films and coming-of-age narratives.

–––––

ACCESS THE FULL 2026 MENA FILM FESTIVAL VIRTUAL PROGRAM WITH AN ONLINE PASS!

EARLY BIRD (Until Dec 1) – $10

GENERAL ADMISSION – $15

SUPPORTER – $20

This ticket price helps cover our costs and makes it possible for us to offer reduced-price tickets to those who express need.

LOW-BARRIER – $10

If the regular ticket price is out of reach for you, this option is here for you. No explanation needed.

INDIGENOUS – $0

For self-identified Indigenous community members. Email tickets@menafilmfestival.com for a discount code. No questions asked.

MENA Film Festival operates under a policy of No One Turned Away for Lack of Funds (NOTAFLOF). If for whatever reason the above rates present a barrier, please contact us at tickets@menafilmfestival.com to provide an alternative means of accessing our programming. No questions asked.

An intimate close-up on Aleya, a trans woman who has recently moved from Cairo to germany right after her transition. This portrait marks her first year as a woman, having to cope with the loss of loved ones, family disownment, hormonal and psychological turmoil. She shares intimate stories, anecdotes and poems that document her transition.

Year
2024
Runtime
10 minutes
Language
Arabic
Country
Egypt, Germany
Genre
Drama
Social Media

Director
Omar Abogabal

4 films in package

Touchscape

Touchscape is an experimental short exploring the layered memories, fluid identities, and intimate gestures of Iranian diasporic life through Super 8 and digital imagery.

Aleya | علية

After her transition, a trans woman from Cairo rebuilds her life in Berlin while navigating family rejection, profound loss, and the psychological turbulence of becoming herself.

Baba I'm Fine

A teen battles heartbreak while spending Friday out with her unknowing father.

Shame | عيب

In 19th-century Levant, Salma Zahore’s simple act of revealing herself during a family photoshoot ignites a storm of scandal, exposing how the concept of ‘shame’ polices bodies, gender, and identity across time and culture.