Cypriot actress Mary Mina is set to star in “Shibboleth,” the debut feature from director Alexandra Matheou. The psychological drama has already generated significant buzz after being selected for key industry programs at the Cannes Film Festival.
The film follows a surrogate mother who joins the couple expecting her baby on what seems like an idyllic getaway to a Greek island. What unfolds is a tense exploration of hidden secrets and power dynamics. In addition, long-buried tensions between the three characters—and the island itself—come to the surface.
Building on Past Success
This marks the second collaboration between Mina and Matheou. The two previously worked together on the acclaimed 2021 short film “A Summer Place,” which earned multiple festival awards and screenings at Toronto International Film Festival and other major showcases. That success helped establish Matheou as a fresh voice in character-driven Mediterranean cinema.
In “Shibboleth,” Mina takes on a more complex, morally ambiguous role as the film examines female autonomy, class divisions, and intimacy under pressure.
Strong European Backing
The project has already earned recognition at Cannes industry forums, winning the Producers Network in Cannes Award at the Crossroads Co-Production Forum. It’s backed by major European funding bodies including the Cyprus Film Fund, Onassis Culture, and MEDIA’s mini-slate program. These signals show robust international support.
With Mina attached and Cannes credentials in place, “Shibboleth” is now actively seeking international co-producers and distribution partners. This effort continues as it continues its festival circuit journey.
