Award-winning documentary about love blossoming amid the Syrian war. Follow filmmakers Janay Boulous & Abd Alkader Habak's powerful journey.
- April 9, 2026
AceShowbiz - The documentary Birds of War, directed by Janay Boulous and Abd Alkader Habak, presents a powerful story of love emerging against a backdrop of conflict and violence in Syria and Lebanon.
The film, which has garnered critical acclaim including four awards at the Thessaloniki International Documentary Festival in Greece and a Special Jury Award at Sundance earlier this year, follows the personal journey of Boulous and Habak. Their love story unfolds amidst the turmoil of war, highlighting how human connection can grow even in the most challenging environments.
Abd Alkader Habak began the project in 2016 while working as a cameraman in Aleppo, Syria, capturing the realities of conflict. Meanwhile, Janay Boulous, originally from Lebanon, was working as a journalist in London for the BBC. Their paths converged through this project, leading to an unexpected relationship that defies the harsh conditions surrounding them.
The documentary not only chronicles their personal romance but also serves as a testament to hope and resilience. Through intimate storytelling and raw footage, Birds of War sheds light on the complexities of war while emphasizing the enduring human spirit and the possibility of love even in the darkest times.
The film’s success at prestigious festivals underlines the universal appeal of its message and the filmmakers’ ability to capture poignant moments in a turbulent region.