Maja Ajmia Zellama’s debut narrative feature, Têtes brûlées, delves into themes of loss and grief and is scheduled for multiple screenings at the prestigious 75th Berlin International Film Festival, featured in the Generation 14plus Programme.

 

The film will kick off with a limited market screening on February 15 at 12:25 PM at DFFB – Kino (Sony Center, 9th Floor), followed by its world premiere on February 17 at 7:15 PM at HKW 1 – Miriam Makeba Auditorium. It will continue with four additional screenings: February 18 at 7:15 PM at Cubix 6, a morning screening on February 20 at 10:00 AM at Zoo Palast 2, then on February 21 at 9:30 AM at Stage Bluemax Theater, and concluding its Berlinale run on February 23 at 4:15 PM at Cubix 6.

 

This Belgian production, infused with Tunisian influences, is a coming-of-age drama that follows 12-year-old Eya as she navigates the profound loss of her older brother, Younès, with whom she shared an unbreakable bond. As she grapples with her grief, she seeks solace in her creativity, resilience, and the support of Younès’ friends, ultimately forging her own path toward healing and maturity.

 

Written and directed by the talented Belgian-Tunisian-Danish filmmaker Maja Ajmia Zellama, Têtes brûlées is produced by Komoko, with Quetzalcoatl and 1080 Films as co-producers. Zellama, a graduate of LUCA School of Arts, is also the co-founder and president of ASBL Bledarte, a Brussels-based organization dedicated to empowering immigrant youth through art and culture.

 

The film’s production team includes Marc Goyens and Nabil Ben Yadir as producers, with cinematography by Grimm Vandekerckhove, editing by Dieter Diependaele, and sound design by David Vranken. Eve Martin serves as the production designer, while Marie McCourt is responsible for casting. MAD World oversees international sales, with MAD Distribution managing its release across the MENA region.

 

The cast features Safa Gharbaoui, Mehdi Bouziane, Mounir Amamra (Divines), Adnane El Haruati, Saber Tabi, Nicolas Makola, Mehdi Zellama, and Monia Taieb.