The programme has been set up to train local talent to develop films in the screenlife format as part of a plan to establish the UAE as a hub for digital filmmaking.
The first cohort of future UAE digital filmmakers under the Screenlife Accelerator Programme has kicked off their journey to become pioneers of the new format. An initiative by Image Nation Abu Dhabi and Bazelevs, the programme has been set up to train local talent – both UAE nationals and residents – in the
innovative screenlife digital filmmaking format.
The finalists will undergo an intensive 12-week course divided into three phases. The first phase
focuses on acquiring the essential technical tools for making a screenlife film. The second phase
revolves around the development and packaging of the participants’ projects by refining their
concepts and narratives, while also learning about budgeting and planning for the execution of
their projects. The final phase sees participants working collaboratively on a proof of concept
and a pitch.
The Screenlife Accelerator Programme is the brainchild of Hollywood filmmaker Timur Bekmambetov’s film and TV production company Bazelevs, and Middle East’s leading film studio Image Nation Abu Dhabi. It aims to develop at least four feature films in the screenlife format as part of a plan to establish the UAE as a hub for digital filmmaking. Further, the partnership aims to replicate the success of the programme in other key markets, such as South Korea, India, and the UK, where similar
accelerator programmes have been held and secured strategic partnerships for movie productions in the
screenlife format.
The shortlisted participants are: Abdul Baset Qayed (UAE); Afra Almarar (UAE); Aisha Al Aqel (Yemen); Alaa Al Dhalel (UAE); Mohammad Aldarmaki (UAE); Reem Bashoun (Yemen); Tamam Assi (Syria); Tilila Latifa (Morocco); Samir Mohammed (Somalia); Dana Itani (USA); Jack Wilkinson (UK); Julie Sanchez (France/Spain); Michael Essey (South Africa); Ilyana Shchebrakova (Russia); Gamzat Aliev (Russia); Adolf El Assal (Luxembourg); Danielle Arden (India); Ekta Saran (India); Pedros Temizian (Armenia); Gorkem Sifael (Turkey) and Kevin George (India).
