Cinemaximiliaan is a platform in Brussels for, with and by newcomers to our country. The initiative started out in an impromptu camp at the Maximiliaan Park with daily film screenings. Through the commitment of a permanent network of volunteers – including many newcomers – Cinemaximiliaan developed into a constant presence in Brussels.

This new production is also supported by many Cinemaximiliaan members. 7 international directors – under scenario guidance from Jaco Van Dormael and Sulaiman Addonia – created their own interpretations on the theme of Solitude and then filmed their stories in a variety of ways. In addition to the recurrent theme, all the films are connected by the format. Always in 4:3, black & white, and without dialogue, but always with a unique and quirky elaboration. These 7 silent films formed the foundation for Brussels musical duo Simon Ho (Switzerland) and Hannibal Saad (Lebanon, US) who composed unique musical interpretations together with a diverse musical team. Western and Eastern instruments, sounds and voices meet, taking the audience along on a journey whereby cinematography and music intertwine on stage for an hour to create an experience like in the early days of silent cinema.

© Karel Uyttendaele