On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment eBook magazine UK“, Red Path, a gripping coming-of-age drama inspired by true events, follows a young Tunisian shepherd’s haunting journey through trauma and resilience, hitting UK cinemas on 20th June 2025.
Red Path
Sovereign is thrilled to announce the UK release of Red Path, a powerful coming-of-age drama directed by acclaimed playwright Lofti Achour, set to premiere in select UK cinemas on 20th June 2025. Inspired by the tragic real-life killing of a teenager in Tunisia in 2015, this evocative film takes audiences on a harrowing journey through trauma, resilience, and the fragility of youth.
Set against the stark beauty of Tunisia’s Mghila Mountain, Red Path follows 14-year-old Ashraf (Ali Helali), a young shepherd whose innocence is shattered when he witnesses a brutal jihadist attack. Forced to deliver a macabre message to his family, Ashraf grapples with the powerlessness of his elders and the indifference of authorities in a world where violence looms large and hope is scarce.
In his debut role, Helali delivers a captivating performance, effortlessly carrying the emotional weight of a child thrust into unimaginable circumstances. Supported by newcomers Wided Dabebi and Yassine Samouni, the young cast brings raw authenticity to this poignant tale.
A Visually Stunning Directorial Debut
Directed with a deft hand by Achour, Red Path blends stark realism with dreamlike sequences, crafting an atmosphere that is both nerve-wracking and deeply moving. Cinematographer Wojciech Staron, who earned Best Cinematography at the Namur International Festival, paints a vivid backdrop of Tunisia’s rugged landscapes, enhancing the film’s haunting tone. Screen Daily praises the film for depicting “a community where childhood is short… an environment in which the threat of violence is constant while the promise of hope is scarce.”
Festival Acclaim and Global Recognition
Since its world premiere at the 2024 Locarno International Film Festival, Red Path has captivated audiences and critics, amassing an impressive array of accolades. The film secured the Audience Award at the Vancouver International Film Festival, Best Director and Best Film at the Red Sea International Film Festival, Best Film and Best Narrative Feature at the Carthage Film Festival, and the Special Jury Prize at the Cinemamed Festival, among others. Its festival run includes nominations for prestigious awards like the Golden Frog at Camerimage and Best Film at the Golden Rooster Awards, cementing its status as a must-see cinematic gem.
Echoes of Cinematic Classics
Drawing comparisons to classics like Kes, Bring Me The Head of Alfredo Garcia, and Dead Man’s Shoes, Red Path strikes a resonant chord, lingering in the memory long after the credits roll. Its intense opening feels like a revenge thriller, while its emotional core explores the wounded psyche of a child and his remarkable resilience.
Special Preview Screenings
Audiences can experience Red Path early through two special preview screenings, featuring Q&As with director Lofti Achour, as part of the SAFAR Film Festival. These screenings will take place on 12th June at London’s Cine Lumiere and 13th June at MAC Birmingham.
Sovereign’s Commitment to Auteur Cinema
Sovereign, known for curating auteur-driven films from international talent, continues its tradition of bringing bold, festival-acclaimed titles to UK audiences. Past releases include Cannes Palme d’Or winner Triangle of Sadness, Golden Bear recipient Bad Luck Banging or Loony Porn, and Tilda Swinton-starring Memoria. With Red Path, Sovereign adds another unforgettable story to its roster, showcasing the power of cinema to illuminate the human spirit in the face of adversity.
Don’t miss this stunning debut from Lofti Achour when Red Path arrives in UK cinemas on 20th June 2025.
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