You’re known as being a big fan of Beirut and specifically Hamra. What is it about Hamra that keeps you hooked?

At the age of seven, I remember passing along Hamra Street to see the Christmas decorations and watch Santa Clause in live animation. That was my first memory of Hamra. When I turned 16, I decided to live in Ras Beirut, for the sake of such memories. Ever since, Hamra remains my weak point.

You’ve established yourself as one of the region’s most talented actresses, taking part in films like ‘West Beyrouth’, and have been approached by international filmmakers for movies like ‘Lila dit ca’ and ‘Whatever Lola Wants’. What gives you gratification, making it in your motherland, or internationally?

The gratification in your motherland is always restricted, especially in Lebanon. The worldwide recognition, on the other hand, is the target of any artist, in any field - painting, singing, acting, design… for me too, international renown is my goal. It widens my horizons and provides me better chances to give the best of myself.

Do you prefer being on television or the big screen?
It’s a completely different approach; all actors aim for the big screen. In Arab countries, fame has to pass through television first. Movie production remains very shy in our region (with the exception of Egypt). Ironically, we release high budgets to compete in organising the best cinema festivals, instead of dedicating such budgets to quality productions.

For full article check out March issue 19