DUBAI, 24 September 2006 — The overwhelming response to Dubai International Film Festival’s (DIFF) first Arab Film Competition has prompted organizers to extend the deadline to Oct. 1. The festival is scheduled to run from Dec. 10-17.
Acknowledging entries to DIFF’s competitive segment, Masoud Amralla Al Ali, artistic director of Arab programming and head of the Arab Film Competition said the ‘Muhr Awards for Excellence in Arab Cinema’ has generated tremendous interest amongst the filmmaking community in the UAE and the region.
He added: “With the opening of cultural and financial opportunities, Arab filmmakers are demonstrating an increased initiative in cinema as an avenue for definitive creative expression.
“The competition represents not only an awakening of the film industry, but also reflects an acceptance of the medium as a craft.”
The Arab Film Competition is open to filmmakers of Arab nationality or descent. The subject and storyline of the film must deal with Arab history, culture, or issues concerning the Arab community.
