A film really hits the mark when its characters stick with you long after the credits roll. In Tunisian director Amel Guellaty's delightful road trip comedy Where the Wind Comes From, Alyssa and Mehdi are perfect examples of this. One loves to stir up trouble, while the other just wants to escape. These two 20-somethings are a whirlwind of chaos and laughter, determined to find a better life beyond their hometowns. Will they make it? That’s the journey you’ll join them on in this fun and lighthearted adventure through southern Tunisia.

The concept

Alyssa (Eya Bellagha) is fed up with the constant responsibility of caring for her sick mom and younger sister. Like many 19-year-olds, she dreams of escaping her small town and finding something more fulfilling in life. Her chance comes when she discovers an art competition that promises the winner a trip out of Tunisia. Although Alyssa isn’t an artist, her friend Mehdi (Slim Baccar) is incredibly talented at drawing. Even though he has a degree in Computer Science, his true passion is art. Alyssa persuades Mehdi to enter the contest, and if they win, she’ll marry him, figuring everything else will fall into place.

How are they going to get to the contest? Who's going to lend them a car? And how will they handle all that cash? Alyssa has a response for every question Mehdi throws at her, even if it lands them in hot water. Once they hit the road, the film starts to take shape, establishing its vibe with more precision. Despite the suspense about how things will unfold for them, Amel Guellaty's sharp script avoids the usual romantic clichés.

The writing skips the easy emotional pulls and gives these two young characters room to bond and enjoy themselves. Guellaty, who also edited the film, keeps a smooth flow in the scenes, allowing viewers to witness Alyssa and Mehdi's personal growth along the journey. Just when a scene feels like it’s dragging a bit (especially the one in the nightclub ladies' restroom), Guellaty skillfully ties everything together to keep the momentum going. Ultimately, it doesn’t matter where they end up, as long as they’re together.

What’s effective

Where the Wind Comes From really hits the mark. It’s a fresh spin on the road trip comedy that taps into the worries and fears of today’s generation. Alyssa’s determined spirit feels genuine, shaped by her struggle to carve out her own path in a mostly patriarchal society. “If we can't even dream, what's left for us?” she questions, highlighting her frustration. On the flip side, Mehdi’s introspective nature shines through even more. At one point, Alyssa refers to some wealthy acquaintances as pigs, fully aware of their superficiality. Luckily, Mehdi steps in to keep her from saying too much.

Both leads are amazing. Eya Bellagha brings a natural charm to Alyssa, blending her rebelliousness with a clear sense of direction. If there’s a song that captures her vibe, it’s definitely Perfect Places by Lorde. She’s also hilarious in a scene where she tries to get food without any cash. Slim Baccar’s Mehdi is more reserved and cautious but eventually embraces the wild journey ahead. Their chemistry is essential, especially in the film’s more chaotic second half. Where the Wind Comes From is a little gem with a huge heart. I’d totally join Alyssa and Mehdi on their adventure, no questions asked.

Santanu Das is covering Sundance Film Festival 2025 as part of the accredited press.

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