Cypriot Director Tonia Mishiali Unveils Powerful Drama on Immigration and Female Resilience

Variety · 2026-07-05
Cypriot Director Tonia Mishiali Unveils Powerful Drama on Immigration and Female Resilience

Cypriot director Tonia Mishiali's new film, "The Lion at My Back," is gaining significant attention at the Karlovy Vary Film Festival, where it competes for the Crystal Globe. This compelling drama critically examines contemporary issues such as immigration, the pressures of patriarchy, and the inherent strength of women. The film intricately portrays the evolving relationship between two women: Mariama, a Senegalese immigrant portrayed by Sokhna Diallo, and Stella, played by Elena Kallinikou. It meticulously details how their bond forms and grows amidst challenging circumstances and diverse backgrounds, offering a nuanced exploration of human connections.