Today's Edition
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
At Arab Film Studio Awards, held at Cinema City Al Qana on Tuesday in Abu Dhabi, young film emerging professionals were celebrated and recognised for their individual creative efforts.
Part of the Creative Media Authority, Arab Film Studio’ mission is to elevate the profile of the UAE’s rapidly evolving screen industry, positioning Abu Dhabi as a film and screen hub for the region and helping the region’s next generation of filmmakers to fulfil their potential. To date, Arab Film Studio has supported more than 200 filmmakers from 50 different nationalities to produce their short films and documentaries – achieving more than 600 selections and 45 awards at national and international film festivals.
Aysha AlJneibi, Director of Talent Management, Creative Media Authority (CMA), said: "Through Arab Film Studio, the Creative Media Authority is dedicated to nurturing and developing the next generation of filmmakers, across genres including fiction and documentary films and TV commercials. A key pillar of our activity to grow the local talent base extends beyond theory to also deliver extremely technical upskilling courses and programmes to ensure we are providing the right knowledge and know-how to future generations. We are committed to fostering an ecosystem where young creatives, including filmmakers, can explore their creativity, learn from industry experts, and ultimately contribute to the growth and vibrancy of the creative sector. By providing opportunities for mentorship, training, and hands-on experience, we aim to empower these aspiring filmmakers to realise their full potential and make meaningful contributions to the ever-evolving world of cinema."
Best Narrative
Awarded for Best Narrative was Fatema Al Mansoori’s short film “Shame”. Having established a passion for film from age of 15, “Shame” is Fatema’s directorial debut and is an impactful short film shedding light on a pressing societal issue about independence. The film follows Mahra’s attempt to flee from home, something which is abruptly halted when her mother catches her. In the ensuing intense confrontation, Mahra is faced with a pivotal choice: accept her predetermined fate or summon the strength to assert her independence and forge her own destiny.
With her film, Fatema hopes to evoke profound emotions and ignite a call for social change.
Best Documentary
Awarded Best Documentary was Nasser Al Hadrami’s “It’s Not About Ketchup”, a documentary that delves into the intricate lives of a couple facing a challenge in their relationship. Centred around a seemingly trivial issue – their relationship with ketchup – the film has a deeper dimension, capturing the essence of their journey and portraying the nuanced dynamics of love and understanding.
Through his work, Al Hadrami embarks on a journey of self-discovery, exploring the world and sharing people's stories in a spontaneous way that touches hearts.“I believe in the transformative power of film to inspire change, motivating me to create impactful stories that linger in the memories of audiences, making a lasting impression,” he said.
Al Hadrami is a seasoned member of Creative Lab, having participated in AFS Young Filmmakers Workshop during his high school years back in 2018. Today, he is a dedicated and accomplished filmmaking professional.
Gehad Darwish, Section Head of Talent and Partnerships at CMA said: “It is with much excitement we mark the outstanding accomplishments of young talents at the Arab Film Studio Awards. Our awards serve as poignant reminder of the collective strength and solidarity within our industry, as we unite to celebrate the ingenuity and perseverance of emerging filmmakers. They underscore the importance of acknowledging and uplifting the voices of tomorrow's creative leaders. By fostering an environment of support and recognition, we not only honour their achievements but also inspire a new generation of storytellers to push boundaries and shape the future of cinema."
Annually Arab Film Studio runs extensive talent development and technical programmes including internships on productions and specialist training workshops such as scriptwriting and filmmaking. Since 2012, the entity has run 50 programmes and upskilled more than 500 individuals including 218 local Emiratis. From the programmes, more than 150 fiction short films, more than 30 short documentaries and almost 30 commercials have been produced to date.
