“Diaries from Lebanon”, Interview with director Myriam El Hajj

A Personal Journey through Lebanon’s Turmoil

In this heartfelt interview, we speak with Myriam El Hajj, the director of “Diaries from Lebanon”, during the 15th edition of the Middle East Now festival in Florence. Myriam openly shares her emotions regarding Lebanon’s current situation, expressing deep anger and grief over the ongoing struggles faced by her country. With personal ties to the Lebanese Civil War—her family was heavily involved—Myriam’s storytelling is deeply rooted in her intimate experiences, depicting a society still grappling with the consequences of decades of conflict. She remarks, “This film is a continuation of my journey to understand the past,” underscoring how the trauma of war continues to haunt the everyday lives of individuals and families across Lebanon.

Artistic Choices and Emotional Depth in Fi