The Village Next to Paradise is a 2024 drama film written and directed by Mo Harawe in his feature-length debut. Starring Ahmed Ali Farah, Ahmed Mohamud Saleban, and Anab Ahmed Ibrahim as a family in turmoil, The Village Next to Paradise was the first Somali film to be featured in the Official Selection of the Cannes Film Festival.
The film was shot in Nugal region of Puntland's capital, Garowe and coastal city Eyl. The Village Next to Paradise grossed $116,351 at the worldwide box office and received generally positive reviews, with praise for the thriller scenes.
Premise Mamargrade (Farah) struggles to raise his son Cigaal (Saleban) in their rural Somali village amidst conflict, natural disasters, and the constant presence of drones from the United States. Their family dynamic is further altered by the arrival of Marmargrade's sister Araweelo (Ibrahim), who is seeking a fresh start after her divorce.
Cast Ahmed Ali Farah as Mamamrgrade Anab Ahmed Ibrahim as Araweelo Ahmed Mohamud Saleban as Cigaal
Production The film was shot in Somalia with a principal cast of first-time actors.
Release The Village Next to Paradise premiered on May 21, 2024, in the Un Certain Regard portion of the Cannes Film Festival, where it was eligible for the Camera d'Or award. It has also been selected for the MAMI Mumbai Film Festival 2024 under the World Cinema section. It had its French theatrical debut in Paris on April 9th, 2025.
Reception
Critical response
Accolades Award Ceremony date Category Recipient(s) Result Ref. Cannes Film Festival 24 May 2024 Un Certain Regard The Village Next to Paradise 25 May 2024 Camera d'Or
References
External links