World Premiere: Jasad & the Queen of Contradictions

Jasad and the Queen of Contradictions is a documentary about Lebanese poet and writer Joumana Haddad who has stirred controversy in the Middle East for having founded “Jasad” (the Body), a cultural quarterly Arabic-language magazine. Dedicated to the body’s art, science and literature, “Jasad” is one of the first of its kind in the Arab world. 

The documentary opens up discussion about sexuality through a magazine that breaks taboos and challenges both stereotypes and language. 

The magazine is what Haddad likes to call "a slap out of amnesia." An amnesia that has suppressed the use of over 100 words for penis in the arabic language. We watch as Haddad tackles without shame issues such as hymenoplasty, homosexuality, eroticism, feminism, sexual health, virginity, and freedom of press. 

Amanda Homsi-Ottoson presents to us the voice of Haddad along with those of the people who both applaud and despise her. 

Director: Amanda Homsi-Ottoson

Year: 2011

Duration: 38′