The Man Who Sold His Skin is a drama film directed by Tunisian filmmaker Kaouther Ben Hania. The movie tells the story of Sam Ali, a young Syrian man who escapes from the war in his country and becomes a refugee. In order to be reunited with the love of his life, Abeer, who now lives in Belgium, he agrees to become a living work of art.
The famous contemporary artist, Jeffrey Godefroi, offers him the opportunity to have his back tattooed, which will then be exhibited in museums and galleries all over the world. In exchange, Jeffrey will pay for Sam's travel expenses and visa to go to Europe.
Sam's body is covered in extravagant and symbolic designs that attract much attention from art collectors and critics. However, his status as a work of art also exposes him to exploitation, as he becomes a commodity that is sold and traded in the art market.
The story is a critique of the commodification of human beings and the contemporary art world's fascination with spectacle. It also deals with the themes of immigration, identity, and the power dynamics between the West and the Middle East.
The movie was premiered at the 2020 Venice Film Festival, where it won the Best Actor award for Yahya Mahayni, who plays Sam. It was also selected as the Tunisian candidate for Best International Feature Film at the 93rd Academy Awards.