Malika: From the suburb's diva to the big screen

Malika Bellaribi’s journey is being turned into a film by Mounia Meddour. Malika, slated for release in French theaters on 18 November 2026, follows the life of the opera singer nicknamed the “diva of the suburbs.” Lilya Adad leads the cast, alongside Camille Razat, Elsa Zylberstein, Lubna Azabal and Marc Lavoine.

The story starts in a Nanterre shantytown and moves toward the stage at the Théâtre du Châtelet. Between these two worlds, Malika must overcome the scars of a childhood accident, confront discrimination and a personal trial, all while pursuing her dream of becoming a mezzo-soprano.

• To be read
• Top cinemas in Paris

This biopic rooted in the Île-de-France region is directed by the filmmaker behind Papicha. It traces the journey of a singer, the role of music in her life, and the social obstacles she must overcome. The film is distributed by Nour Films.

This page may contain AI-assisted elements, more information here.