Raja Hanna: A Visionary Filmmaker Redefining Cinematic Expression

In the ever-evolving landscape of independent cinema, few voices emerge with the distinctiveness and poetic resonance of Raja Hanna. A scriptwriter, producer, and director, Hanna is a filmmaker who infuses his work with surrealism, raw emotion, and profound introspection. His journey into cinema was unconventional—beginning with a foundation in art history at Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM) in 2018, where he cultivated his passion for visual storytelling. It was through this deep artistic exploration that he discovered filmmaking as his ultimate medium for expression, seamlessly blending narrative, emotion, and aesthetics.

A Daring Entry into Filmmaking

Raja Hanna made his directorial debut in 2022 with Intensité, a short film that he wrote, directed, and produced. This project laid the foundation for his unique cinematic voice—one that thrives on the interplay of abstract imagery and poetic storytelling. Intensité mesmerized audiences with its visual poetry, exploring the nature of reality through stunning cinematography and evocative verse. The film invited viewers to immerse themselves in a hypnotic dance of shapes and words, offering an experience that was as intellectually stimulating as it was emotionally profound.

Building upon his early success, Hanna continued his creative exploration with Love Intense (2023), a black-and-white film reminiscent of the 1920s silent era. As the film’s writer and producer, he collaborated with director Davide Chiazzese to craft a deeply surreal and visually captivating narrative. Love Intense tells the story of a couple so consumed by love that they exist in a dreamlike world of their own making. The film takes a haunting turn when the woman, obsessed with devotion, blinds her partner—believing that only through blindness can she truly care for and control him. The film resonated deeply with audiences, garnering multiple awards and honorable mentions on the international festival circuit.

Night of Resolutions: A Bold New Chapter

In March 2025, Raja Hanna returned with Night of Resolutions, a gripping drama that further cemented his reputation as a filmmaker unafraid to tackle profound and complex emotions. As both the writer and producer, he teamed up with director Dylan Gouze to create a film that delves into themes of lost love, betrayal, and the fragility of family bonds. Set during a New Year’s Eve gathering, the film follows a mother’s revelation to her children that she and their father are divorcing—a decision that sends emotional shockwaves through the family. The film masterfully captures the delicate interplay of grief, resilience, and personal transformation that follows such a life-altering announcement. With raw performances and a compelling narrative, Night of Resolutions underscores Hanna’s ability to dissect human relationships with remarkable depth and sensitivity.

A Multidisciplinary Approach to Storytelling

Raja Hanna’s artistic evolution is deeply rooted in a multidisciplinary approach that transcends traditional filmmaking. Drawing from his background in art history, poetry, screen printing, and moving images, he crafts narratives that explore universal themes of love, separation, ambition, desire, and obsession. His work is infused with a dreamlike quality, seamlessly blending reality with surrealist elements to create emotionally resonant cinematic experiences.

Filmography: A Legacy in the Making

Intensité (2022)
Written, directed, and produced by Raja Hanna, Intensité is a mesmerizing meditation on the nature of reality. With its stunning visuals and poetic verses, it invites audiences to lose themselves in an abstract yet emotionally transformative experience.

Love Intense (2023)
Written and produced by Raja Hanna, directed by Davide Chiazzese, Love Intense is a stunning tribute to longing and passion. Set in a fantastical realm, the film portrays a love so deep that it transcends the boundaries of reality. With an ethereal visual style and powerful performances, the story immerses viewers in a surreal world of devotion and emotional intensity.

Night of Resolutions (2025)
Written and produced by Raja Hanna, directed by Dylan Gouze, Night of Resolutions is a poignant drama exploring the emotional upheaval of a family on New Year’s Eve. As a mother announces her impending divorce, her children must navigate the emotional complexities of a fractured family dynamic. The film’s powerful storytelling and raw performances make it a compelling exploration of love, loss, and resilience.

Pushing the Boundaries of Cinema

Raja Hanna’s work stands as a testament to the power of storytelling—its ability to challenge perceptions, evoke emotions, and linger in the minds of audiences long after the credits roll. With each project, he pushes the boundaries of cinematic expression, seamlessly weaving together elements of surrealism, poetry, and deep human emotion. As he continues to carve his path in the world of independent cinema, one thing is certain: Raja Hanna is a visionary whose films will continue to captivate, challenge, and inspire audiences for years to come.