Elizabeth Tabish, known for her role as Mary Magdalene in The Chosen TV series, is starring in a faith drama based on real events telling the story of a persecuted Armenian refugee family fleeing to the U.S to seek asylum.
Called “Between Borders”, produced by Pinnacle Peak and StoryLight Productions, and released through Fathom Events in theaters nationwide in the U.S. on Jan. 26, the story is set in the background of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict in the 1980s, which resulted in thousands of refugees seeking safety and refuge.
The plot follows the arduous journey of Violetta (Tabish) and Ivan Petrosyan (Patrick Sabongui), and their two young daughters as they escape religious and racial discrimination in Azerbaijan and Russia. The film provides an empathetic experience of life as a refugee.
A synopsis for the film reads: “In a crumbling Soviet Union, the Petrosyan family finds themselves as outcasts—wherever they go. Their Armenian heritage marks them for discrimination, first in their home country of Azerbaijan and then in Russia. After finding their eternal hope through a church planted by American missionaries, the hostility of everyday life pushes them to seek refuge in the United States. In the shadow of exile, hope became their home.”
“If there ever was a film for Armenians everywhere to rally behind, this is that film,” said Armen Karaoghlanian, founder and chief executive officer of Armenian Film Society. “Between Borders is a film that explores the strength of family, the power of faith, and the journey of overcoming life's challenges with your loved ones by your side. This is a film that will resonate with Armenians around the world, as well as anyone who has ever chased a dream.”
“Between Borders is a triumph of true storytelling,” Karaoghlanian added, “and a reminder that the moviegoing experience is still magical. Elizabeth Tabish is nothing short of a revelation. This is the film Armenians around the world have long awaited.”
The Armenian Film Society hosted the premiere of “Between Borders” at the 2024 Armenian Film Festival in Los Angeles. The film was was co-written and directed by Mark Freiburger.
“Between Borders is not only about the Armenian experience, but that of the modern-day refugee as well. This film tells a story of hope, of perseverance, and the belief that our greatest days are still ahead.” said Freiburger. “Making this film has been a powerful experience that I will never forget.”
Filming took place in locations around Bucharest in Romania earlier this year, 2024.
“We're not just telling a story; we're bringing to life the incredible journey of a family that represents hope, strength and the power of faith,” said producer Isaac Norris. “The Petrosyans’ resilience and grace throughout their harrowing journey challenges us all. Their faith shines in circumstances that many of us will never understand.”
Christian Daily International has previously reported on the persecution of believers in the Nagorno-Karabakh region and destruction of Christian sites.
