The Lion at My Back

The Lion at My Back (2026)



5.0 2026 106 min —

Director: Tonia Mishiali

Cast: Sokhna Diallo, Elena Kallinikou, Prokopis Agathokleous, Herodotos Miltiadous, Giorgos Kyriacou

Drama
A coming-of-age story unfolds as Mariama, an 18-year-old asylum-seeker from Senegal, celebrates her milestone birthday. Meanwhile, Stella—a quiet woman in her 40s—makes a courageous decision to escape the grip of addiction and rebuild her life from scratch. As both fight to carve out their own space in a world that demands everything, their paths collide, forging an unlikely and powerful connection that changes everything.

More About This Film

The Lion at My Back is a 2026 Cypriot drama film that explores the lives of two women navigating the margins of society in Cyprus. The narrative focuses on the unlikely kinship that forms between them as they struggle to make a living, offering a poignant lens onto issues of migration and social exclusion.

Set against the backdrop of Cyprus, the film delves into the personal struggles and resilience of its protagonists. By centering on their relationship, the story highlights themes of solidarity and survival in a hostile environment, providing a humanizing perspective on the migrant experience.

  • The film features Sokhna Diallo and Elena Kallinikou in leading roles, bringing depth to the portrayal of marginalized characters.
  • Prokopis Agathokleous is also part of the main cast, contributing to the ensemble's dynamic.
  • The production has garnered attention for its realistic depiction of life at the societal edges in Cyprus.
  • Herodotos Miltiadous appears in the film, adding to the strong local talent involved in the project.

Where to Watch

As a 2026 release, availability may vary by region and platform rollout schedules.