Project Description
Curent Status: In development phase
In collaboration with the Alternative Kitchen and Solo Films, we are working on the development of a documentary that has the ethics of veganism at its heart.
Men of Blood is a feature-length documentary inspired by the journey of storyteller and conservationist Chadi Saad. It explores the deep-rooted traditions of masculinity in Lebanon and how they fuel the unnecessary slaughter of migratory birds. Taking a feminist approach through the lens of men, the film challenges the notion that toxic masculinity is solely a gender issue, it is also an environmental crisis.
At its core, the documentary examines the rites and rituals that condition young boys into the cycle of toxic masculinity, where strength, courage, and the ability to take life are seen as essential steps toward becoming a “real man.” In many traditional communities, proving one’s hunting skills, drawing blood, is a rite of passage, a way for boys to earn respect and be deemed worthy of marriage. This ingrained ideology has led to the mass killing of migratory birds, turning Lebanon’s skies into a battleground of misplaced identity and cultural conditioning. On top of all this, we delve into how climate change is affecting migratory birds and how this also alludes to the need for societal change.
The film also subtly weaves in Chadi Saad’s personal transformation, from an avid bird hunter to a passionate conservationist. His journey serves as a powerful counterpoint, demonstrating that masculinity can evolve beyond violence and dominance into stewardship and protection.
Through raw storytelling, stunning visuals of Lebanon’s landscapes, and intimate interviews with hunters, conservationists, and cultural experts, Men of Blood exposes how deeply masculinity is tied to destruction, and how breaking the cycle can lead to both environmental and social change.
Project Colaborators
Samer Beyhum
Filmmaker, BFC Co-Director & Co-Founder, Lead Instructor
An award-winning Lebanese-Canadian filmmaker, director, sound engineer, editor, educator, and vegan chef whose work is deeply rooted in creating socially impactful content. As a co-founder of the Beirut Film Center (BFC), Samer has dedicated himself to empowering youth through film education, providing tools and opportunities for aspiring filmmakers to tell their stories and address pressing societal issues.
Samer's commitment to advocating for human rights and social justice is evident through his initiatives. He played a pivotal role in establishing the Children’s Rights Festival, a platform amplifying the voices of marginalized children and raising awareness about their rights through the powerful medium of cinema.
Similarly, his work with 99Media, which he co-founded in Canada, aligns with his belief in using art as a catalyst for change, championing stories that challenge societal norms and spark meaningful conversations. With decades of experience in post-production as an editor, colorist, sound designer, and workflow consultant, as well as expertise in live and recorded sound engineering, Samer’s technical skill set complements his creative vision and leadership. His projects often highlight underrepresented voices, with a particular focus on LGBTQ+ issues, refugee experiences, and gender equality, reflecting his unwavering dedication to advancing the human condition.
Beyond the realm of filmmaking, Samer is also a passionate vegan chef. He incorporates sustainability and compassion into his culinary creations, blending traditional Levantine flavors with a modern plant-based approach. This dedication to ethical living further reflects his holistic commitment to a better world. A true initiator of socially relevant projects, Samer’s work bridges education, activism, and artistic innovation. From founding his own film school to inspiring the next generation of storytellers, he continues to use his art and passions to shine a light on the challenges and triumphs of humanity, ensuring that stories of resilience and hope reach audiences worldwide.
Josef Khallouf
Filmmaker, Producer
Based in Beirut, Lebanon, Josef Khallouf has been working in the film industry since 2003. Throughout his career, he has collaborated with renowned directors such as Mounir MaAsri, Nadine Labaki, Philippe Aractingi, Jihane Chouaib, and Soudade Kaadan.
Josef’s impressive track record includes line producing the award-winning short film “Bonboné” at the Moscow International Film Festival in 2018, serving as the executive producer of “Trumpets in the Sky” which won Best Film at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2021, “The Key” nominated for the Grand Jury Award at the South By South West Film Festival in 2023 and “Canary in a Coal Mine” officially selected at the Clermont-Ferrand International Short Film Festival 2024.
In addition to these accomplishments, Josef has also worked as a production manager on acclaimed feature films such as “The Day I Lost My Shadow” which won Best Debut Film at the Venice Film Festival in 2018, and “Go Home” nominated for Best International Feature Film at the Edinburgh International Film Festival in 2016.
In 2014, Josef established his own production label, “The Film Monk”, through which he continues to push the boundaries of Lebanese cinema by producing and directing innovative cinematic works. Equipped with a passion for storytelling, Josef Khallouf is a driving force in the world of film production.
