Minus 40

Director: Waseem Khair 

represented at DFM by: Ashraf Dowani

Producer: Giovanni Robbiano

Co-Producers: La Luna Productions-France| A Little Confidence-Italy | Alpha Tango Productions-Algeria

Countries of Production: Palestine | Italy | France| Algeria | Canada

Production Company: Sunshine Production Ltd, Nahwand Films Ltd

Runtime: 100 min

Budget: USD 1,787,567

Secured budget: $293,000 (Around 15%)

Expected financiers: CNC, Italy minority co-production fund, AFAC, DFI, Telefilm Canada, SODEC, World Cinema Fund.

We are looking for: We are seeking distribution and sales partners, and investors who are passionate about authentic and bold cinematic voices

Contact: waseem5er@gmail.com 

Social Media handle: @waseemkhair, ​​https://www.facebook.com/waseemkhir

Synopsis:

Minus 40 is a psychological drama exploring grief, denial, and identity in politically charged Jerusalem. Kamel, a middle-aged taxi driver, loses his wife Mariam in a tragic accident that spirals into a national security case. Israeli authorities retain her body, depriving Kamel of closure and trapping him in denial. Unable to bury her, he constructs an illusory world where Mariam is still alive. Isolated and unraveling, he clings to this imagined reality, believing he can still protect his family. Pressured by his son and sister, Kamel enters therapy, but it deepens his detachment. His hallucinations collapse when Mariam disappears from his mind, plunging him into despair. As financial struggles, eviction, and police pressure mount, Kamel is forced to confront his grief. Eleven months after her death, stripped of all illusions and everything he once had, he finally accepts the loss—and the painful reality of a body still withheld.

Writer, Director, and Producer

Waseem Khair is an independent Palestinian director, actor, and producer, and the CEO of Nahwand Film, a production company he founded in 2015. He began his artistic journey in theatre in 2005, earning national and international recognition for his work as both actor and director. His innovative approach and dedication to the performing arts garnered numerous awards, reflecting his deep creative vision.

In 2013, Khair transitioned into filmmaking, directing and producing projects such as Throe (2015), 120 Km (2021), and Gaza Bride 17 (2025). He has also held key roles in film production—including location manager, assistant director, line producer, and production manager—demonstrating a broad and versatile skill set. His contributions span feature films such as All That’s Left of You (2025) and Palestine 36 (currently in post-production), as well as television series and programs, solidifying his presence in the Palestinian and regional creative industries.