Int’l Critics Line: Anna Smith On ‘Lamya’s Poem’ – Annecy
A refugee finds solace in literature in Lamya’s Poem, a Syria-set, English-language feature which premiered at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival. Written and directed by Alex Kronemer, it stars Millie Davis (Wonder) as the voice of Lamya, a spirited 12-year-old who lives with her mother in war-torn Syria in 2016. When her teacher lends her a book by 13th century poet Rumi (Aladdin‘s Mena Massoud), Lamya magically connects with the writer in 1221. He, too, is experiencing conflict, anger and doubts about his future, and a fantastical friendship develops between the pair of thoughtful, troubled youngsters.