“Seeking Haven for Mr. Rambo”: Portrait of a Captivating Cinematic Work
The Egyptian film “Seeking Haven for Mr. Rambo” has made its brilliant debut at the 81st Venice International Film Festival, entering the Orizzonti Extra section dedicated to showcasing innovative and promising international cinema.
The trailer released at the same time as its premiere offers a glimpse into the story of Hassan, a young man who embarks on an initiatory journey to save his beloved dog, Rambo.
Hassan’s perilous quest brings him face to face with the demons of his past. After a fateful incident, he finds himself hunted by his neighbors and community.
The cast and crew of “Seeking Haven for Mr. Rambo” made their grand entrance at the Venice Film Festival on Monday evening. The film’s world premiere is scheduled for Wednesday, September 4 at 9:00 PM at SALA GIARDINO. A special press and filmmaker screening will take place earlier in the day at 2:30 PM at the same venue.
Additional screenings are scheduled for Thursday, September 5 at 9 AM at SALA GIARDINO. Actors Essam Omar, Rakeen Saad, Ahmed Bahaa, and the film’s canine star, Rambo, will be in attendance at the world premiere.
The film’s creative team, including director and screenwriter Khaled Mansour, producers Mohamed Hefzy and Rasha Hosny, and other key crew members, will also be in attendance.
“Seeking Haven for Mr. Rambo” finally marks its world debut at the Venice International Film Festival, capping an eight-year production period.
Produced by Film Clinic’s Mohamed Hefzy and newcomer Rasha Hosny, the film represents a significant milestone for Hosny, whose career also includes notable contributions to film criticism and programming at major international festivals.
The film will be distributed worldwide by Film Clinic Indie Distribution.
Prior to its Venice premiere, the film was lauded at the Fifth Amman Film Industry Days (AFID), receiving the DCP Visual Identity and Services Award. It also received several production grants, including from the Red Sea Film Fund, the Arab Fund for Arts and Culture (AFAC), and the Fonds Image de la Francophonie.
The film’s development journey has been marked by numerous awards and opportunities. The script received development grants from AFAC and the CineGouna platform, and participated in prestigious labs and forums such as La Fabrique Cinéma, the Beirut Cinema Platform, and Dot on the Map.
In addition, the film’s script made an impression at international film financing markets such as the Malmö Film Market and the Durban Film Mart.
“Seeking Haven for Mr. Rambo” therefore promises to be a captivating cinematic work, as much for its production history rich in recognition as for the depth of its story and its talented cast.