Amir S Ghattas is a rising star in the world of filmmaking, known for his bold and meaningful approach to cinema. From a very young age, Amir discovered his passion for storytelling and has been breaking boundaries ever since. His journey is not just a tale of talent but also one of perseverance, creativity, and courage.
Early Life and First Encounters with Film
Growing up in a family immersed in the film industry, Amir was surrounded by creativity. His father, Sherif Waheed, a prominent film producer in the Middle East, introduced him to the world of production, direction, and editing. From early theatre performances at school to imaginative plays with figurines at home, Amir’s passion for storytelling was evident from the age of six.
Despite his father’s concerns about the unstable nature of the film industry, Amir pushed forward. By the age of eight, he was experimenting with photography using whatever gear he could find. He quickly mastered tools like Photoshop and Lightroom, gaining recognition from his local community for his talent.
By age ten, Amir realized photography alone was not enough. He wanted to create stories that could impact people deeply. This ambition led him to filmmaking, starting with short films and music videos. His first significant project, a short film titled A Thousand Times, addressed suicide, a topic many considered too dark for a child. Yet, the film was a reflection of Amir’s own experiences, struggles, and desire to turn difficult emotions into meaningful art.
Discovering True Inspiration
While many assumed Amir’s career was a result of his family background, he credits his personal experiences and love for performing arts as his primary sources of inspiration. Acting in school plays and receiving recognition from his theatre teacher helped shape his confidence and talent. Watching audiences laugh, cry, and feel joy through his performances cemented his belief in the transformative power of art.
Amir also drew inspiration from his father, who exemplified dedication and resilience in the film industry. This combination of personal passion and familial guidance motivated Amir to pursue filmmaking not for fame or money but for creating lasting, impactful stories. He realized that those who make real change often work behind the scenes, shaping the world without seeking the spotlight.
Breaking Boundaries at a Young Age
Amir’s determination came with challenges. Many doubted his abilities, telling him that his ambitions were too grand for someone so young. Yet he persisted, using criticism as fuel to refine his craft. His short film A Thousand Times was both a personal outlet and a statement to the world. Talent knows no age, and meaningful stories can come from anyone willing to create them.
For Amir, cinema itself was never about having the perfect gear, sticking to a specific genre, or relying on a massive crew to deliver artistic results. He bent the rules of cinema by creating most of his ideas through DIY methods, redefining experimental shorts in his own way. This became his way of proving that art has no limitations — when you truly want to create, you find a way with the little joys life throws at your door. In his words, “Life is art, and art is to know how to live.”
This early recognition helped Amir understand an important lesson. Art and cinema are not about approval but about impact. While some dismissed his work, others were deeply moved, setting the stage for his future in filmmaking.
Major Achievements in Filmmaking
Amir’s short films have garnered attention at international film festivals, earning nominations and awards for their originality and emotional depth. While he prefers to remain mysterious about specific accolades, he considers the reception of his work among audiences the true measure of success.
In 2023, Amir released BYE-RUT, a poignant film reflecting on the aftermath of the Beirut port explosion. The film explored personal and collective transformation, emphasizing resilience and hope amidst destruction. The following year, he directed Sawt El Madini, an experimental short featuring contemporary dance and music, which premiered in cinemas in Lebanon and achieved international recognition. These projects showcased Amir’s ability to blend local culture with global cinematic techniques, highlighting his vision of art as a universal language.
Overcoming Challenges
Starting in the film industry at a young age came with numerous obstacles. Amir faced skepticism from peers, teachers, and even family members. While classmates played sports and video games, he focused on creating films and exploring the complexities of storytelling.
In addition to societal pressure, Amir navigated challenges related to identity and creativity. In the Middle East, artists are often judged or stereotyped based on their interests, leading to misunderstandings and discrimination. Despite these hardships, Amir remained committed to his vision, emphasizing freedom, authenticity, and the power of art to inspire change.
He also pursued psychology, particularly dark psychology, to better understand human behavior and deepen his characters. This interdisciplinary approach reflects his dedication to crafting stories that are not only visually compelling but also emotionally resonant.
Current Projects and Future Goals
Amir’s current projects continue to push creative boundaries. His upcoming short film, Akher Kharif (Last Autumn), shot in both Paris and Beirut, took five years to complete. The film explores relationships, love, and self-discovery, highlighting Amir’s commitment to storytelling that resonates deeply with audiences.
He is also working on La dernière fois, a French short film examining the fleeting nature of moments and memories. Alongside filmmaking, Amir has ventured into entrepreneurship, launching businesses like Legacy Lab, a platform offering educational and self-help e-books, and Film Urbain, a clothing brand designed for artists. These ventures align with his mission to empower creators and elevate art in society.
Lessons Learned and Professional Philosophy
Amir emphasizes the importance of perseverance, authenticity, and resilience. He has learned that not everyone will understand or appreciate his work, but those who do can experience its true value. He believes that creativity is a lifelong pursuit that requires courage, patience, and empathy.
He also stresses respect and kindness in the workplace, valuing collaboration over hierarchy. For Amir, filmmaking is not about ego but about creating meaningful experiences and leaving a positive mark on society.
Impact and Legacy
Amir hopes to redefine perceptions of cinema in Lebanon and beyond. He aspires to inspire future filmmakers to value creativity, integrity, and artistry over commercial success. His goal is to leave a legacy of meaningful films that challenge conventions, raise awareness, and touch lives.
Through his work, Amir encourages young artists to embrace their individuality, pursue their passions fearlessly, and use their talents to make the world a better place. He wants to be remembered as a filmmaker who combined artistry with purpose, proving that age, background, or societal expectations should never limit one’s dreams.
Advice to Young Creators
Reflecting on his journey, Amir offers a simple yet profound piece of advice to aspiring artists. “Life’s tough, but art will make it easier for you, and from there you will know.” His story is a testament to the power of determination, creativity, and unwavering belief in oneself.
Amir S. Ghattas continues to inspire the next generation of filmmakers and artists. With each project, he demonstrates that cinema is more than entertainment. It is a medium to express truth, provoke thought, and evoke emotion. His journey reminds us that true art comes from the heart, and its impact can transcend time, age, and borders.
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