"The Lion at My Back": A Tale of Friendship Amid Adversity

The motion picture "The Lion at My Back" unfolds in Cyprus, narrating the journeys of Elena Kallinikou, an addict in recovery, and Sokhna Diallo, a teenage Senegalese refugee. Directed by Greek Cypriote, Tonia Mishiali, the film may be studded with some dramatic clichés, but its depiction of female bonds, alternate families and strength amid adversity impregnated with English dialogues would likely propel it to additional film festivals.

Dialo, playing Mariama, is introduced on her 18th birthday, celebrated in a women's shelter since her escape on a makeshift boat from Senegal to elude a forced marriage. Despite the festive ambiance, uncertainty looms as Mariama now has to be self-reliant, with limited state support. Homelessness dawns upon her, leading to tireless attempts at getting housing, only to be repeatedly rebuffed, largely due to implicit racism.

The narrative also includes Stella, played by Kallinikou, a cleaner in her late 30s struggling with drug tests and low wages. While battling temptations from her flatmates' drug habits, she strikes a deal with Mariama - a bed in exchange for a clean urine sample for her drug test.

Despite a stern exterior, Stella harbours a tender side, seeded in her history of bitter experiences. This once prostitute and now reformed individual has a daughter, kept away from her by her own mother. Stella's past also includes a menacing pimp known as "The Suit," who is determined to pull Stella back into her dark past, notwithstanding her reluctance.

The narrative puts forth the harsh realities of Stella's former job as well as Mariama's nascent professional life working for a butcher, faced with the unwelcome advances of her colleagues. There is also an unexpected turn when "The Suit" steps in with an ignominious deal involving Mariama.

Despite an overwhelmingly somber tone, the story brings to light the tentative bond forming between the two women. The lead actresses deliver strong performances, with Dialo, inspite of her inexperience and last-minute casting, stands her ground. The storyline of Kallinikou, circuiting the infallible bond of the heart, may not be new, but her delivery in the performance surely offers freshness in the viewing.