Mohamed Kordofani Brings Sudanese Drama ‘About Love & September Laws’ to MIA Market

Director Mohamed Kordofani is taking his second Sudanese period drama, “About Love & September Laws,” to the Milan International Film (MIA) Co‑Production Market. The film, set in 1983 Khartoum, follows an African‑American journalist caught in a love triangle as Sharia law reshapes the city. Kordofani hopes the market exposure will connect the story with audiences beyond Sudan and the Arab world. The project reunites much of the creative team behind his Cannes‑lauded debut “Goodbye Julia.”

What happened

The film was selected for MIA’s Film Co‑Production Market, marking the second installment of Kordofani’s planned trilogy that chronicles modern Sudanese history. Produced by Klozium Studios, the core team includes co‑producers Marc Irmer (France), Michael Henrichs (Germany), Issraa Elkogali (Sweden), cinematographer Pierre De Villiers, editor Heba Osman, sound designer Rana Eid, and co‑writer Khaled Alwaleed.

Set in 1983, the story follows Carter, an African‑American journalist who arrives in Khartoum to revive a struggling newspaper. He reunites with old friend Nouri, an idealistic doctor, and hires Fatin as his translator, unaware that she is Nouri’s ex‑wife. As Sharia law is imposed, Nouri faces a death sentence for refusing to amputate a thief’s hand, and Carter must decide whether to expose the regime’s hypocrisy.

Kordofani has said the MIA Market offers a platform to reach wider audiences, positioning the film for co‑production deals and international distribution that could bring Sudanese narratives to viewers worldwide.

Why it matters

The film highlights a pivotal moment in Sudan’s recent past, giving global audiences insight into the social and political upheavals of the early 1980s. Its presence at a major European market signals growing interest in African cinema and could open doors for future Sudanese projects. Successful financing and distribution would demonstrate that stories rooted in specific regional histories can resonate internationally, encouraging more investment in under‑represented voices.

How to think about it

Streaming platforms and distributors should assess the film’s cultural relevance and its potential to fill a gap in world‑cinema catalogs. Position it as a flagship African narrative that can attract viewers interested in history, politics, and romance. Pair the release with educational content about Sudan’s 1980s to deepen engagement and broaden appeal.

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