The fifth edition of the “Amman International Film Festival – First Film” event began recently at the Hussein Cultural Center in Amman. The event, which runs until July 11, 2024, features the theme “Tell Me” and showcases over 50 films from various Arab and international countries. All participating films will make their Jordanian premiere.
The opening ceremony commenced with a minute of silence in honor of the Palestinian victims. Traditional elements such as music and the red carpet were omitted. Two films were screened at the ceremony: “Goodbye Tiberias” directed by Lina Sverem and the short film “No” by Zero Distance.
“No” is one of 22 short films included in the “From Zero Distance” campaign overseen by Palestinian director Rashid Mashalawi. These films were created in response to the war in the Gaza Strip which began on October 7, 2023. The war has resulted in the tragic loss of over 38,000 lives and over 87,500 injuries, with children and women disproportionately affected.
The festival’s organizers have emphasized a program that includes Palestinian voices and advocates for their rights, acknowledging the ongoing aggression and civilian casualties in Gaza. Aligning with the festival’s philosophy of storytelling and urgent need for healing, the “Tell Me” theme incorporates artistic elements inspired by the ancient statues of Ain Ghazal (dating back 9,000 years) and traditional embroidery from the Arab Levant, combined with cinematic techniques.
The films will compete for various awards, including: Black Iris Award for Best Arab Feature Film, Black Iris Award for Best Arab Documentary, Black Iris Award for Best Arab Short Film, and Black Iris Award for Best Arab Documentary. A Jury Award will be presented in each category for Best Foreign Language Film. The Jury will also recognize outstanding achievements with special mentions for Best New Actor, Best New Screenwriter, and Best New Editor in the Arab Feature Film competition.
Amman International Film Festival – First Film: A Platform for Emerging Arab Filmmakers
The fifth edition of the Amman International Film Festival – First Film, held at the Hussein Cultural Center in Amman, Jordan, took place from July 4th to July 11th, 2024, under the theme “Tell Me.” This prestigious film festival shines a spotlight on the work of emerging Arab filmmakers, fostering creativity and celebrating the diverse tapestry of cinematic talent in the region.
A Festival of Solidarity and Artistic Expression
This year, the festival took on a particular resonance, with its opening ceremony honoring the memory of victims of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. A minute’s silence was observed in tribute to the fallen, and the traditional ceremonial elements were respectfully omitted. This solemn gesture served as a powerful reminder of the festival’s commitment to showcasing the human condition through the lens of film, even amidst adversity.
The Power of “Tell Me”
The “Tell Me” theme embodies the festival’s core purpose – to give voice to the untold stories of the Arab world. It encourages filmmakers to explore themes of identity, resilience, and social commentary, fostering a platform for dialogue and understanding. This powerful call to action is further reflected in the meticulously curated selection of films, each offering a unique perspective on contemporary Arab society.
A Celebration of Arab Cinematic Talent
Over 50 films from various Arab and international nations were screened during the festival, offering a diverse cinematic voyage for audiences. These films, presented in Jordan for the first time, showcased the vibrant spectrum of film genres, from powerful documentaries to thought-provoking narratives and poignant short films.
Showcasing Arab Talent: The Black Iris Awards
The festival culminated in an awards ceremony, recognizing the exceptional talent of the filmmakers and recognizing their contribution to the cinematic landscape. The coveted Black Iris Awards were bestowed upon the most outstanding films in several categories:
| Award | Category |
|---|---|
| Black Iris Award | Best Arab Feature Film |
| Black Iris Award | Best Arab Documentary |
| Black Iris Award | Best Arab Short Film |
| Black Iris Award | Best Arab Documentary (Short Film) |
| Jury Award | Best Foreign Language Film |
The awards ceremony highlighted the dedication and creative vision of Arab filmmakers, emphasizing the festival’s commitment to fostering their growth and success.
More Than Film: A Cultural Exchange
Beyond the screenings, the festival hosted a series of workshops, panel discussions, and networking events, creating a vibrant hub for filmmakers and film enthusiasts alike. These platforms provided opportunities for attendees to engage with established professionals, learn new skills, and exchange ideas.
A Beacon for Emerging Arab Filmmakers
The Amman International Film Festival – First Film continues to solidify its position as a leading platform for emerging Arab filmmakers. With its focus on artistic excellence, cultural exchange, and social responsibility, the festival serves as a valuable resource, empowering a new generation of filmmakers to share their stories, spark dialogue, and shape the future of Arab cinema.
Key Takeaways
- The Amman International Film Festival – First Film is a vital platform for showcasing the work of emerging Arab filmmakers, fostering creativity, and celebrating the rich tapestry of cinematic talent in the region.
- The festival’s “Tell Me” theme encourages filmmakers to explore themes of identity, resilience, and social commentary, fostering a platform for dialogue and understanding.
- The Black Iris Awards recognize the exceptional talent of Arab filmmakers and highlight the festival’s commitment to fostering their growth and success.
- The festival extends beyond screenings, offering workshops, panel discussions, and networking events, creating a dynamic hub for filmmakers and film enthusiasts.
- The Amman International Film Festival – First Film remains dedicated to empowering a new generation of Arab filmmakers, providing them with the tools and opportunities to share their stories, spark dialogue, and shape the future of Arab cinema.