Dubai International Film Festival has announced its Muhr Feature programming, a category that highlights work from regional directors. The films will show at the 13th edition of Diff, which takes place December 7-14 at Madinat Jumeirah.
Foreign Body by Tunisian director Raja Amari, starring Hiam Abbas and Sara Hanashy, follows Samia, who immigrates from Tunisia to France to escape her radical brother.
The Dark Wind by Iraqi director Hussein Hassan follows Reko and Pro, who are in love and about to marry, when an attack on their village by extremist militants halts their plans.
Tramontane, by Vatche Boulghourijan, follows blind musician Rabih who explores rural Lebanon in search of himself, meeting marginalised citizens along the way.
Off Frame AKA Revolution Until Victory, a non-fiction film by Palestinian director Mohanad Yaqubi, sheds light on the struggles by the stateless people of his homeland, utilising found archive footage. Yaqubi premiered No Exit at the 11th edition of Diff.
A Maid for Each, by Lebanese filmmaker Maher Abi Samra, exposes the harsh nature of the domestic work industry in Lebanon.
Egyptian Jeanne d’Arc, by Cariene filmmaker Iman Kamel, is a creative look at the resistance, and continued oppression of Egyptian women since the 2011 revolution.
Ali, the Goat, and Ibrahim by Egyptian filmmaker Sherif Al Bendary will have its world premiere at Diff. It follows Ali, who believes his dead girlfriend has been reincarnated as a goat.
Little Eagles, by Egyptian director Mohammad Rashad, will also hold a world premiere at Diff. It tells a tale inspired by Rashad’s damaging relationship with his father, which impacted his self-esteem.
“Since the inception of Muhr Feature in 2006, with each passing year, the competition grows fiercer, as the inspiring directors never fail to impress Diff’s audiences. This year promises a line-up which truly delves into the region’s rich traditions and history to share unique perspectives in the international spotlight, helping to alter predetermined consumptions of the Arab world, and aiding the rise of cinema within the region,” said Diff artistic director Masoud Amralla Al Ali.
To attend Diff, register now at diff.ae.
