Rehleh to get post-production funding from Enjaaz

Dubai International Film Festival’s post production fund Enjaaz has selected Meyar Al Roumi’s Rehleh to receive financial support this year. This is the tenth project that benefits from the fund this year.

Enjaaz selects up to 15 documentary and fiction feature filmmakers to receive up to US$100,000 annually to provide funds and support for films in development.

Speaking about the initiative, DIFF managing director Shivani Pandya said: “Enjaaz steps in at the most critical juncture in the evolution of a film from ideation to completion, by offering valuable support for post-production. Rehleh is a compelling story, which like other Enjaaz-supported funds, has the potential to win global acclaim.”

Produced by Jerome Bleitrach under the banner of Bizibi, ‘Rehleh’ is a fiction feature which comprises two stories. The first is the story of two young lovers on a quest for survival amidst the imposing restrictions of their society. The second is a story of disillusionment and an abandonment of love upon tasting the freedom the lovers were so desperate for. Set in Damascus and Tehran, Rehleh is a journey of introspection and revelation.

Meyar says he has focused “on the feelings of my characters” in this film.

Arab filmmakers around the world can apply for the first cycle of the 2011 edition of Ejaaz until February 1, 2011. The decision on distribution of funds will be made on March 15, 2011. In the second cycle, entries will close on August 1, 2011, and funding decisions announced by September 15, 2011. Details on submission requirements are available at www.dubaifilmfest.com.