The Lion at My Back, the latest film from director Tonia Mishiali, is a cinematic story of an unexpected bond between two women from different walks of life. Mariama, a Senegalese asylum seeker in Cyprus, has just turned 18 and meets Stella, a woman in her 40s who has recently overcome addiction to start a new life.

The film, which will world premiere on July 6 at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival (KVIFF), brings Mishiali back to the festival after her 2018 debut feature Pause. The Lion at My Back promises to be a vivid, heartwarming, and hopeful story about the power of family bonds and motherly love.

The film features a talented cast, including Sokhna Diallo, Elena Kallinikou, Prokopis Agathocleous, and Herodotos Miltiadous. The screenplay was written by Mishiali, Dianne Jones, and Simona Nobile, with Manu Tilinski serving as the director of photography and Emilios Avraam as the editor.

The production company behind the film is Bark Like A Cat Films, with co-production by Iris Productions and Avaton Films. The Yellow Affair is handling sales on The Lion at My Back.

Ahead of its world premiere, an exclusive sneak peek at the movie has been released, showcasing a tender moment of conversation between the two leading ladies. The clip offers a glimpse into the film's exploration of themes such as men, pain, and the complexities of human relationships.

The Lion at My Back is a testament to the power of storytelling in bringing people together and transcending cultural and socio-economic boundaries. As the film industry continues to evolve with technology-driven automation and workflow transformation, it is refreshing to see a movie that focuses on the human element and the importance of empathy and understanding.

The film's premiere at the Karlovy Vary Film Festival is a significant milestone, marking a new chapter in Mishiali's career as a director and writer. With its unique blend of drama, emotion, and social commentary, The Lion at My Back is sure to resonate with audiences and leave a lasting impact.