“Only Rebels Win”, interview with actress Hiam Abbass

February 21, 2026

Hiam Abbass: “Beyond a love story, this film is an act of resistance”

“Only Rebels Win”, interview with actress Hiam Abbass Chiara Nicoletti

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To open the Panorama section of the 76th Berlinale, comes French filmmaker and video artist of Lebanese origin, Danielle Arbid with “Only Rebels Win”.

The film, set in Beirut, stars Hiam Abbass in the role of a middle-class widow with Palestinian roots who falls in love with a Sudanese young man, played by Amine Benrachid.

An Act of Resistance

“Trapped by conventions that do not suit them, this modest and courageous woman and this vulnerable man are fighting against an entire society. Their love itself is a defiant gesture, a middle finger even. But everything has its price” says director Danielle Arbid.

Actress and filmmaker Hiam Abbass confirms that the film emphasize resilience and defiance against societal constraints and explores how love can become an act of resistance in challenging environments, making it a timely and universal story.

Freedom as a Daily Battle

Danielle Arbid says in her press notes: “I can feel so acutely how freedom has become a daily battle for us all. It’s a global issue and struggle”.

The core message of “Only Rebels Win” is that sometimes, love and personal choice are the ultimate acts of rebellion. The film portrays characters who defy political and cultural pressures to chase happiness and authenticity.

The film’s protagonist Hiam Abbass embodies resilience in a world that often seeks to suppress individual freedom. By choosing love despite obstacles, the characters highlight how personal acts of rebellion can challenge oppressive systems. “Only Rebels Win” when they stand up for their identities and desires, no matter the costs.

Plot

In an illusionary Beirut, Suzanne (Hiam Abbass) meets Osmane (Amine Benrachid) after saving him from a racist attack. Osmane is Sudanese, young, undocumented and searching for a better future. Suzanne is a middle-class widow with Palestinian roots, a mother of two adult children and well over twice his age. Unexpectedly, the two lonely souls open up to each other and connect. Shy at first, they grow closer, until they admit they are in love. As a fractured Lebanon teeters on the brink of collapse, their relationship provokes a wave of anger and indignation all around them, forcing them to face the hostility, and to resist.

Written by: Chiara Nicoletti

Guest

Hiam Abbass

Film

Only Rebels Win

Festival

Berlinale

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“Only Rebels Win”, interview with actress Hiam Abbass