After focusing on directing commercials and music videos with renowned artists from the Middle East and Europe, and after directing five award winning short films, Eli finally finds inspiration and time to write his debut feature film.
“Writing feature films isn’t an easy process, especially in Lebanon. I’m currently in the process of finding residencies abroad where I can solely focus on the writing process while being surrounded by inspiring conditions alongside mentors and fellow artists. I already have the plot and script outline figured out more or less; I just can’t wait to dig deeper into the aspects of what makes a good film memorable, and most importantly, writing a story only I can tell!”
Eli is in post production of his newest music video which is scheduled to be released end of May.
“I’m glad I am able to execute my bold aesthetics and indie style in my commercial works in Lebanon. It’s always rewarding to hear audiences and clients express how fresh my vision is to the Lebanese scene”
Eli is inspired by European aesthetics and one of his earliest dreams was to direct a music video for a European artist, which he did. He worked with the French indie band, You Said Strange, all the way from Lebanon to Normandy, France.
“We shot for almost four days all around Normandy and I couldn’t be happier. We had no limits, we were fooling around, creating art. I got to learn from all the artists who were involved in this project. I think this is one of my favorite music videos so far. And because of this music video, artists I work with here in Lebanon got motivated to try new stuff and gave me their full trust”.
Lust, heartbreaks, love, goodbyes and human connections are recurring themes in Eli’s films and photography, visually presented through his love for bold and saturated colors with unique and vulnerable characters, making his stories character-driven.
Eli finds inspiration from his personal life and self reflections.
“Cinema heals” and “Only you can tell your story” are his mottos.
His first film Fly My Love was based on the complex love-hate relationship he had with his mother, and luckily, after watching the film together, things have changed for the best as they both healed in a way.
Since then, Eli has decided to always heal through his art, either in films, photography or music videos.