Talal Derki

Syrian heart and a lens focused on war, Talal Derki is a storyteller of his homeland's tumultuous narrative. Born in Damascus, Syria in 1977, Derki has been active as a director since 2003, primarily focusing on documentaries that unravel the complexities of war and human resilience. His most notable works include "Return to Homs" and the Oscar-nominated "Of Fathers and Sons," which have garnered him critical acclaim and awards, including the Grand Jury Prize for World Cinema - Documentary at the Sundance Film Festival. Derki's authorial style is characterized by his raw, immersive approach to storytelling, often risking his life to capture his subjects' experiences of war and survival. Those who know Derki's work cannot help but admire his dedication to shedding light on the harsh realities of his war-torn homeland, demonstrating a courage and commitment that is as inspiring as it is heartbreaking.