Jordan's Rising Cinematic Voices: From Student Academy Recognition to Feature Debut

Breaking New Ground in Jordanian Cinema

When Raghad Albakheet and Danial Salman first stepped onto the set of A Subconscious Dive, they weren't just making a film — they were crafting a deeply personal journey into the human psyche. The short, which earned them recognition from the Student Academy Awards, marked only the second time in Jordan's history that a film had received this honor. But more than just a milestone for the nation's cinema, it was the launching pad for two filmmakers who have since begun turning their attention to feature-length projects that promise to push boundaries even further.

"The strength of the film comes down to honesty, not being afraid to dive into deep, uncomfortable emotions," says Albakheet. "Naturally, my lived experience as a woman shaped the narrative, making it spontaneously reflect the unspoken struggles that women endure."

Their story is one of creative courage and technical ingenuity. The film's underwater sequences were shot in Aqaba, a location that required not only logistical planning but also Albakheet's own scuba diving certification — an ambitious move that underscored the lengths they would go to tell their story authentically.

A Visual Journey Through Memory and Emotion

What sets A Subconscious Dive apart is its unique approach to storytelling. Rather than following a linear narrative, the film unfolds like a dream, diving deep into the subconscious mind of its protagonist. Through haunting visuals, the audience experiences a journey through different stages of life — from childhood to motherhood — each phase illuminated with both beauty and trauma.

As Salman, who served as producer, reflects on their experience: "When discussing decisions with Raghad, I wasn't only thinking about logistics — I understood what she was trying to achieve artistically, and my role became finding practical ways to make that vision possible."

The film's success also opened doors for its creators in unexpected ways. For Albakheet, it was a validation of her artistic voice and a launching pad for future projects. "It has been a defining launchpad for my journey as a writer and director," she shares. "Coming from a fine arts background, this recognition validated my visual and non-linear storytelling approach, while giving the film the global platform it needed."

Building on Momentum: From Short to Feature

The recognition of A Subconscious Dive has not only elevated the profile of both Albakheet and Salman but also inspired them to take their creative ambitions further. Both filmmakers are now working on separate feature-length projects that continue to explore themes of identity, memory, and the emotional complexities of personal experience.

Salman, who sees himself as a writer and director, is currently developing his first feature film, The Memory of You. Drawing from personal family history, the story revolves around inheritance conflicts following the death of a grandfather, delving into themes of Alzheimer's disease, memory, and what we hold most dear.

Meanwhile, Albakheet is preparing her debut feature, Ice Cream Truck, which she describes as a narrative continuation of A Subconscious Dive. The film explores the subconscious mind through experimental elements that aim to deliver intense emotional experiences to audiences. "It is a psychological confrontation between 'myself and I' across different chapters of life," Albakheet explains. "It will resonate with international audiences, while still authentically mirroring the culture I grew up in, and it will give voice to women whose stories often go unheard."

Challenges and Triumphs of Independent Filmmaking

The path from student film to feature debut is rarely smooth. For Albakheet and Salman, it meant working with limited resources — their short was made on a budget of just $4,231. Yet, they managed to pull off extraordinary visuals and emotional depth.

"Producing the film was particularly challenging because, as students, we set out to make a project that extended far beyond Amman with a budget of $4,231," Salman notes. "Shooting also took place at the Al Azraq Wetland Reserve. We collaborated closely with the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature, whose support was invaluable throughout the production."

Their dedication to authentic storytelling — and their willingness to take risks — speaks volumes about their commitment to cinema as a medium of expression. "This is not just about entertainment," says Albakheet. "It's about truth. It's about giving voice to experiences that are often marginalized or misunderstood." Her approach is both deeply personal and universally resonant.

A New Chapter for Jordanian Cinema

The story of Albakheet and Salman isn't just theirs — it represents a broader movement within the Middle Eastern film industry. Their success at the Student Academy Awards highlights how young filmmakers in countries like Jordan are no longer content to remain in the shadows. They're creating bold, experimental work that speaks to global audiences.

As Salman puts it: "We are incredibly proud that a project created through the Jordan Cinema Academy has reached this stage and can represent Jordanian cinema internationally." With their first cohort of the academy now having made history, they've paved the way for future generations of filmmakers.

The Future Is Bright

Both creators are in the early stages of developing their feature projects. Albakheet's Ice Cream Truck is nearing completion of its second draft, and she's already applying to screenwriting labs and development funds to solidify a budget. Meanwhile, Salman is preparing to begin work on his short film What Remains, which explores the sensitive subject of honor killings.

Together, Albakheet and Salman are proving that passion, persistence, and artistic vision can triumph over limitations — whether in budget, location, or cultural expectations. Their journey is a powerful reminder that the world of cinema is constantly evolving, and with it, so too are the voices shaping its future.