 |
'gulf Nights' Highlights Strengths And Scope Of Regional Cinema10.04.10
The first 'Gulf Nights,' a gathering of film professionals and media organised on the sidelines of the third edition of the Gulf Film Festival, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Majid Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture, discussed the strengths and scope of regional cinema. In a free-wheeling discussion moderated by Festival Director Masoud Amralla Al Ali and Consultant Salah Sermini, the participants debated on the objectives of the festival, and how far the set-goals have been accomplished. Masoud underscored the need to strengthen the film academic infrastructure in Dubai. He said a solid educational framework is crucial to provide expert training in all the different disciplines of the film industry for the emerging film makers in the region. A number of film-makers, film professionals and media including Egyptian film critic Essam Zakariya and Hassan Haddad from Bahrain took part in the discussion, presenting pertinent aspects on the evolution of regional cinema and how the Gulf Film Festival can further strengthen Gulf cinema. Masoud Amralla Al Ali said: "The Gulf Nights is a forum for open discussions, and the first session was a rewarding exercise, which presented a thorough overview of the Gulf film industry. The participants shared candid views on what ails the industry and how the Gulf Film Festival can take a lead position in addressing the issues, and promoting regional talent." Among the key points of discussion were the aims of the festival and how the goals will be addressed given the drastic pace of evolution of regional cinema. The participants also dissected the quality aspects of movies from the region, and called upon filmmakers to further their horizons with bold themes and technical experimentation. Masoud added: "The discussions were pertinent given the rich showcase of films from the Gulf region at the festival. This year, of the 194 films totally being screened, 112 are from the Gulf region with the UAE alone showcasing 36 films. This tremendous interest among the young and aspiring filmmakers must be effectively leveraged, and the Gulf Film Festival will serve as a showcase for offering further encouragement." "We organised 'Gulf Nights' with the objective of involving and bringing together all guests to discuss issues and thoughts related to Gulf, Arabic and international cinema in general. The topics to be discussed in the coming Gulf Nights are derived from the views of reporters and critics who are attending GFF," said Salah Sermini. The Gulf Film Festival, being held until April 14, is supported by Dubai Culture and is held in association with Dubai Studio City. More details on the festival are available online at www.gulffilmfest.com.
|
