Over the years, Lebanese filmmakers have sent out a number of submissions to the Oscars, but have - and not for lack of exceptional talent -seen minimal nominations. But, 2019 is looking quite different.
Lebanese filmmaker Nadine Labaki's most recent film, Capharnaüm, just scored an Oscar nomination, becoming the second-ever Lebanese film to make it that far off in the race.
Labaki's masterpiece is up against other films in the Best Foreign Language Film category at the 91st Academy Awards.
The film - which was released on Sept. 20 - tells the story of a child who struggles to survive and sues his family "for giving him life in the first place."
He was not registered at birth, as his parents could not afford the fees required to do so. He exists, but not on paper. He has no I.D. card - meaning he is unable to get a passport, attend school, or get medical assistance.
Following the film's release, Labaki received international acclamation, and earned a 15-minute standing ovation at Cannes Film Festival last year.