The powerful and moving story of Ghost Season is coming to the big screen. Produced by Smashing Dandelions, the upcoming feature film is an adaptation of Sudanese-American author Fatin Abbas’ debut novel, which has been praised for its haunting portrayal of human connection in times of war and displacement.
About the Story
Ghost Season takes place in the fictional border town of Saraaya, on the edge of Sudan and South Sudan. At the heart of the story are five strangers brought together at an NGO compound:
- A white American geographer
- A South Sudanese translator
- A northern Sudanese cook
- A Sudanese-American filmmaker
- A local boy
As the specter of civil war looms, their lives intertwine through fragile alliances and unexpected emotional bonds. But as tensions rise and betrayals unfold, each is forced to confront life-changing decisions about loyalty, survival, and trust.
Film Adaptation Details
The adaptation rights for Ghost Season have been acquired by Smashing Dandelions, the production company behind critically acclaimed projects such as The Mauritanian.
The film will be written and directed by Akuol de Mabior, a South Sudanese filmmaker best known for her documentary work, making her narrative feature debut with this project. Producers Michael Bronner and Bhakti Shringarpure are attached to bring Abbas’ novel to life on screen.
About the Author
Fatin Abbas is a Sudanese-American author and academic, born in Khartoum. She earned her PhD in Comparative Literature from Harvard University and has been recognized for both her fiction and cultural commentary. Ghost Season, her debut novel, was widely praised for its rich storytelling, layered characters, and nuanced exploration of identity, displacement, and the human cost of conflict.
Why Ghost Season Stands Out
Ghost Season is more than just a war drama—it’s a deeply human story about the connections we form under extraordinary circumstances. It offers a rare and authentic portrayal of Sudanese life, exploring the cultural intersections between local and diaspora experiences.
With a Sudanese director at the helm and a story rooted in authentic voices, the film promises to be a significant addition to global cinema, shining a light on underrepresented narratives.
For casting call announcements and audition opportunities for Ghost Season, stay tuned to Project Casting. We’ll keep you posted as soon as roles become available.
