“Scales” is headed stateside. A press release announced that Variance Films acquired North American theatrical rights to Shahad Ameen’s feature directorial debut, a feminist parable that made its world premiere at Venice Film Festival’s Critics Week.
Set in a dystopian landscape, “Scales” tells the story of a “strong-willed young girl, Hayat, whose poor fishing village is governed by a dark tradition: every family must give one daughter to the mermaid-like sea creatures who inhabit the waters, to ensure the village can continue their fishing expeditions. When Hayat’s father refuses, the girl becomes a pariah, considered a curse by the village and urged to sacrifice herself — but Hayat has her owns plans for her destiny,” the synopsis hints.
“I have always wanted to explore the Gulf region and its varied cultures and stories. I also wanted to tell a story that is set in a magical world yet deals with real issues,” writer-director Shahad Ameen told us. “I stumbled on the story of the ancient Syrian goddess Atargatis, a strong mermaid who became my inspiration. It led me to the idea that independent women get cast away in traditional societies. After exploring this theme in my short film [‘Eye & Mermaid’], I expanded upon it [in ‘Scales’], examining the role of women in society, and what happens when women choose to embrace different roles.”
“Scales” is expected to hit North American theaters later this year.
“I have been overwhelmed with the global response for my film and how well it has been received at numerous festivals. My only wish throughout this journey has been for people to continue to see it and that the film continues to open up more conversations about beliefs and gender roles – I’m so pleased that Variance will allow my film to continue its journey throughout North America,” said Ameen.
Dylan Marchetti, founder of Variance, added, “‘Scales’ is a powerful, visually arresting film that needs to be seen on the big screen, and we are looking forward to the opportunity to make that happen. Shahad’s vision pervades every frame of the film, and we’re proud to be able to get behind her debut feature. When theaters reopen, many will flock to the blockbusters, but some of us will want to do what we love best: hit up our favorite arthouse to see something fresh and unexpected. It’s dark times right now, but arthouse theaters will reopen, and we will be there when they do.”
While speaking with us, Ameen emphasized that she wants audiences to “relate to the main themes of the film: life and women’s roles within it. Although the film is set in the Arab world, this is a universal story that everyone can relate to,” she explained.
