Doha: The first-ever hybrid edition of Ajyal Film Festival, presented by the Doha Film Institute (DFI), will feature an inspiring selection of 80 films from 46 countries, organisers announced at a press conference yesterday.

The programme includes 22 features and 58 shorts representing timeless tales of community and determination, highlighting the innocence of youth and an enduring optimism through cinema.
Thirty-one of the films are from the Arab World, 30 by women filmmakers and 24 were supported by the Institute.

The 8th edition of the film festival, to be held on November 18-23 in an adapted format, celebrates the essence of Ajyal and its commitment to community and youth development, with the majority of activities offered online. Pushing the limits of creativity and paving new paths, Ajyal 2020 will feature an innovative mix of virtual and in-person film screenings, interactive discussions, and the first-ever drive-in cinema in Lusail as part of a multisensory experience for all ages.

Ajyal 2020 will provide the jury the opportunity to interact with international arts and culture visionary, H E Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who will inspire jurors with her approach to establishing Qatar as a leading global cultural destination and the impact of art and culture in national development.

Ajyal Spotlight sessions will feature Claudio Gubitosi, Director and Founder of the Giffoni Film Festival in Italy; Indian actor and humanitarian, Kunal Kapoor; Goran Bodgan, Bosnian actor known from the TV series Fargo; and American actor and comedian Zach Woods. In line with government guidelines and with the health of all Ajyal participants as the top priority, DFI continues to work closely with Qatar’s Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) and the Crisis Committee to deliver a safe Festival experience with a balance of virtual and in-person elements.

This year’s Festival will open with Sun Children by Iranian director Majid Majidi, which made its debut at the 77th Venice International Film Festival earlier this year.

Addressing the official press conference, Fatma Al Remaihi, Festival Director and Chief Executive Officer of DFI, said: “The impact of film and art moves beyond boundaries and limitations, and its innate power to connect and inspire is now more important than ever. A year ago none of us would have thought the situation in the world would be what it is today. Out of adversity emerges innovation and at Ajyal 2020, we have found creative new ways through technology to continue to bring people together to celebrate the power of film in a safe environment. The adapted edition of Ajyal will be a hybrid event of online and in-person activities that will ensure the creative vibrancy of Qatar while taking active responsibility for the physical well-being of all participants.”

Tickets for the festival are available for online purchase. For more information and tickets, visit: www.dohafilminstitute.com/festival.

SOURCE: THEPENINSULAQATAR