Layla

Captivating audiences at Sundance this year, Amrou Al-Kadhi’s debut feature is an exhilarating depiction of self-acceptance set in the East London queer scene.

Layla follows the journey of a struggling British-Palestinian drag queen whose bold exterior masks a deep yearning for love. After a performance at a corporate Pride event, Layla unexpectedly catches the attention of Max, an advertising executive. Swept up in an intoxicating romance, Layla is soon faced with difficult choices, as they begin changing themselves to keep Max’s affection. This semi-autobiographical queer love story marks the arrival of an exciting new filmmaking talent. 

"Leading the vanguard for the next generation is this confident debut from 33-year-old British-Iraqi director Amrou Al-Kadhi, a frank and emotionally honest portrait of someone who falls outside society’s boxes and steadfastly refuses to conform to them." - Damon Wise, Deadline

Supported by Film4