"Cacao" short film by Hadi Moussally

Hello everyone, I’m Hadi Moussally.

I am a filmmaker, photographer, producer, and performer originally from Lebanon. My artistic journey began at 18 when I moved to France to study film direction. Over the years, I have explored various forms of media, blending fiction, documentary, fashion, dance, and experimental elements to create unique artistic expressions.

Today, I’m here to share my next project, a deeply personal and powerful film titled "Cacao".

The Story of "Cacao"

Cacao follows the story of a young woman navigating the bustling streets of Barcelona on her skateboard. Her life takes a dark turn when a visit to a client’s apartment leads to a harrowing encounter. Confronted with the refusal to use protection, the night spirals into a traumatic experience that triggers a surreal, introspective journey. As Cacao grapples with her emotions, anger and a thirst for revenge begin to take hold, setting her on a path of both confrontation and self-discovery.

The Intentions Behind "Cacao"

With Cacao, my intention is to explore the complex interplay of beauty, strength, and vulnerability as embodied by the real-life character, Cacao. Meeting her was a revelation—a blend of undeniable beauty and inner strength, shadowed by vulnerability that speaks to the challenges she has faced. While the film is based on elements of her reality, I am relieved that the traumatic event depicted did not actually occur in her life.

This story is also deeply personal, drawing inspiration from my sister’s experiences. Her strength was unexpectedly tested by trauma, and Cacao serves as a reflection of how the mind can dissociate during such critical moments. The film moves beyond conventional revenge narratives, questioning whether violence truly offers resolution.

Cacao’s revenge is not about inflicting pain but about forcing her attacker to confront the severity of his actions, aiming to prevent future harm. The film challenges the notion that payment implies ownership, particularly in the context of sex work and adult business transactions. Cacao invites audiences to contemplate the consequences of trauma, the resilience of the human spirit, and the nuanced journey towards healing and self-restoration.

Expanding Artistic Horizons

Over the years, my work has evolved into a hybrid form, blending genres like fiction, documentary, fashion, dance, and experimental elements. This hybrid approach has led to several acclaimed works, including Bellydance Vogue, which received over 90 festival selections worldwide, and Space Woman, acquired by Canal+. My film La Casquette won the France TV contest, further solidifying my reputation as an innovative filmmaker.

Achievements and Recognition

To date, my films have garnered more than 50 awards and 400 selections in international festivals. These accolades reflect the impact of my work on both the global film community and the broader artistic world.

Why I Need Your Help

Creating "Cacao" requires significant resources—equipment, locations, collaborators, and post-production services. Your contribution will help cover these costs and ensure that this film meets the high standards I’ve set for myself and that my audience has come to expect.

What Your Contribution Will Support

Production Costs: From locations to set design passing by catterings, your support will help create the visual world of the film.

Collaborators: Bringing in talented actors, and other creative professionals.

Post-Production: Ensuring the final piece is polished, with high-quality editing, sound design, and visual effects.

Festival Submissions: Promoting the film on the international stage, where it can be seen and appreciated by audiences worldwide.

Rewards for Supporters

As a token of my appreciation, I’m offering several rewards for your contributions:

Any donation : Your name will be mentioned in the credits as a big Thank you.

50€ & above : You will receive the poster of the film signed + name in the credits

100€ & above : you will be invited to the first private screening in Paris or Barcelona + name in the credits + signed poster

Join Us on This Journey

Your support is not just about funding—it's about joining us on a journey to create a film that challenges, moves, and resonates with audiences. Together, we can bring Cacao to life and share its powerful message with the world.