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Filmmaker, Benjamin Nicolas, announces the release of his latest project, Broken Dreams, a short film exploring the reality of children affected by war.
"Over the past two years, I’ve been profoundly affected by the situation in Ukraine and Gaza, especially by the images of children, helpless in the streets," says Nicolas. "As a filmmaker, I couldn’t just stand by. I wanted to take action, to create something that would resonate beyond words."
The film is narrated by Imane, a young girl from a refugee camp, whose words bring a firsthand perspective to the screen. Nicolas connected with her through Diane Antakli, founder of the humanitarian group Baroudeur de l’Espoir, ensuring the story remained authentic.
Credits
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- Production Company Skeptic Films
- Director Benjamin Nicolas
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Credits
View on- Production Company Skeptic Films
- Director Benjamin Nicolas
- Editing Cabin Editing Company/London
- Color Arketype
- Line Producer Benjamin Nicolas
- DP Juliette Lossky
- Editor Carla Luffe
- Colorist Charles-Etienne Pascal
- Sound Designer & Mixer Samuel Jurkovic
- Music Nils Frahm
Explore full credits, grab hi-res stills and more on shots Vault
Credits
powered by- Production Company Skeptic Films
- Director Benjamin Nicolas
- Editing Cabin Editing Company/London
- Color Arketype
- Line Producer Benjamin Nicolas
- DP Juliette Lossky
- Editor Carla Luffe
- Colorist Charles-Etienne Pascal
- Sound Designer & Mixer Samuel Jurkovic
- Music Nils Frahm
Visually, the film takes an abstract approach to portraying childhood, featuring Nicolas’ own daughter, Zoë. "Given how sensitive she is to these issues, she was eager to participate. She embodies the emotional weight of these stories in a way only a child can," Nicolas explains. Montreal artist Olivier Monfet contributes a striking visual element, creating an artwork throughout the film.
His piece, based on a photograph by Motaz Azaiza, reflects both destruction and resilience. "Olivier’s artistic process mirrors the reality of these children, violence transforming into hope," Nicolas says. "By shattering glass to reveal the children's faces, he makes a powerful statement: even after everything is broken, beauty and life persist."
Beyond awareness, Broken Dreams aims to make a tangible impact. The artwork featured in the film will be auctioned to support Baroudeur de l’Espoir in aiding displaced children. "This project isn’t just about starting a conversation, it’s about making a real difference," Nicolas affirms.
