The Divided Island draws attention to the 50-year partition of Cyprus with an “unbiased” exploration of the issues at play
A film tackling the “Cyprus problem” – made by Cypriots who grew up in Enfield – is set to be released this autumn.
Directed by Turkish Cypriot Cey Sesiguzel and co-produced by Greek Cypriot Andreas Tokkallos, of Two Fresh Productions, The Divided Island aims to bring an “unbiased, shared understanding of a complex issue” and foster a narrative “towards a future peaceful solution to the Cyprus problem”.
The filmmakers will host a premiere of The Divided Island in North London at a venue and date still to be confirmed, followed by a release in selected cinemas on 1st November. The project was announced last week to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the partition of Cyprus.
Cey and Andreas state in their announcement of the film: “The Divided Island brings the ‘Cyprus problem’ back into focus, revealing untold stories and unravelling the intricate history that still reverberates today. Amidst the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, the world has largely forgotten the frozen divide that has left Nicosia as Europe’s last divided capital city.
“As a result of the conflict in 1974, the north remains largely inhabited by Turkish Cypriots, with Greek Cypriots in the south, separated by a ‘no-go zone’ area governed and patrolled by UN soldiers. After 50 years of failed negotiations the issue remains today on whether the Island will ever become re-united.
“The Divided Island challenges the often hostility-driven narratives perpetuated by mainstream media, offering instead a pursuit of truth through deeply personal interviews – from those whose lives, homes, and country were torn apart, to the new generation of Cypriots yearning for peaceful reconciliation.”
Speaking recently to film industry website Deadline.com, Cey said: “The subject matters the film deals with are relevant to everyone, regardless if they have any connection to Cyprus or not.
“I hope the documentary highlights the humanity and complexity of this issue in a way that sparks conversations for generations to come.”
For more information about The Divided Island:
Visit thedividedisland.com
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