The Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF) has opened submissions for the Muhr Awards as part of its 14th edition to be held from 6th 13th December. Since its inception in 2006, the Muhr Awards has provided invaluable financial and in-production support to foster artistic excellence from within the Arab world and beyond, with many filmmakers […]
The Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF) has opened submissions for the Muhr Awards as part of its 14th edition to be held from 6th 13th December.
Since its inception in 2006, the Muhr Awards has provided invaluable financial and in-production support to foster artistic excellence from within the Arab world and beyond, with many filmmakers going on to become globally recognised names.
DIFF is now accepting entries for feature fiction and non-fiction; and short films originating from the UAE, the GCC and the wider Arab world which will compete for the prestigious Muhr Awards. As the only Arab film festival that qualifies to contribute short films for Oscar consideration, the Muhr Arab short that picks up Best Muhr Short Film will be eligible for entry into the Academys 2018 competition.
Commenting on the role the Muhr competition has played in showcasing the ingenuity and excellence of Arab filmmaking to a global audience, DIFFs Artistic Director, Masoud Amralla Al Ali said: “The Muhr Awards is something we are particularly proud of at the Festival, not merely for the opportunity it has provided for new filmmakers to come to the fore, but also for the impact these filmmakers go on to have in the wider cinematic landscape. Since its introduction in 2006, we have seen rocketing growth and standards raised year after year, with the continuing increase of Emirati filmmakers a particular highlight, bringing their work to new levels each edition. DIFF will always stand behind regional filmmakers who find new ways to enrich, empower and entertain, something that is close to the heart of the Festival, showcasing new perspectives and journeys to bridge cultures both new and far through the medium of film. We are very excited to see what tales are in store this December and are sure it will be a joy to all who attend.”
The Muhr Feature category is an internationally recognised programme focusing on regional excellence as talented directors reflect their personal experiences of the Arab world through the compelling medium of film while the Muhr Short and the Muhr Gulf Short categories aims to uncover the most inspiring, imaginative and distinctive short films from the Arab World while reflecting diversity and tolerance. The Muhr Emirati category reflects the vibrancy and dynamism of the UAEs filmmakers, introducing audiences and celebrating the exciting, new wave of Emirati cinema from burgeoning and established Arabic talent. Feature films, non-fiction and short films directed by a filmmaker of Arab nationality or origin are all eligible for entry, and filmmakers have until August 31st, 2017 to enter their films. Films must have been produced after September 1st, 2016.
