As I Open My Eyes

Against the scorching Tunisian summer of 2010, 18-year-old Farah Kallel bid farewell to academic pursuits, embarking on a new chapter at university. Unbeknownst to her, her burgeoning musical talents had already caught the attention of the authorities, who were monitoring her band's lyrics, which dared to challenge the status quo. Meanwhile, Farah's mother, Hayet (Ghalia Benali), received an ominous visit from old friend Moncef, warning her of the police presence and cautioning her to keep a watchful eye on her daughter. However, Farah, fueled by her passion for music, defied her mother's wishes and took the stage at their first gig, her performance a resounding success that bolstered her confidence.

As the band continued to perform, Borhène arrived at rehearsal, his body bearing testament to a brutal night spent in police custody. He accused Ali, the band's manager, of being an informant, suspecting him of secretly recording their performances for the authorities. Later, Ali approached Farah, revealing that he had been protecting her and attempting to warn her of the impending danger. But Farah remained oblivious, dismissing his warnings.

In a sudden turn of events, Farah vanished while en route to visit her father at the bus station. Hayet frantically searched for her daughter, ultimately discovering that she had been taken into custody by the police. Desperate to secure Farah's release, Borhène advocated for public pressure, but Hayet chose a different path, reaching out to Moncef, who revealed Farah's location.

In the darkness of prison, Farah faced physical and emotional brutality, her spirit crushed. Eventually released to her parents, she sank into a deep depression, abandoning her music altogether. Yet, with her mother's unwavering support, Hayet managed to coax Farah back to the microphone, their harmonies filling their home once more.