Dubai (Etihad)
The organizers of the Meta International Film Festival announced the launch of its second session in Dubai between the 9th and 12th of next November, as the annual festival highlights a group of the most prominent international films, and also celebrates filmmakers, sector experts and cinema lovers, in the presence of an elite group of the most prominent stars in the world. In continuation of the remarkable success achieved by last year’s session.
The 2023 edition focuses on providing an exceptional experience full of high-quality content, workshops and educational sessions dedicated to emerging filmmakers, in addition to the premieres of the latest films from production studios and independent filmmakers, under the supervision of a distinguished jury. The “Meta” Film Festival is held in “Wafi City”, It aims to enhance the creative economy in Dubai and support the national strategy for cultural and creative industries in the UAE, as it enjoys the support of content partners such as the Royal Film Commission of Jordan, Babylon Creative, Front Row Entertainment, and Mad Solutions.
Leila Messinai, founder of the Meta Film Festival, said: “The 2022 edition of the festival witnessed a resounding success, and we are all confident that this year’s edition will contribute to strengthening Dubai’s position and potential, as a center that allows filmmakers and creatives to meet, exchange knowledge and experts, and promote their work. The festival is also highly appreciated among the circles.” “Cinema lovers and industry experts, this year’s edition is witnessing a remarkable growth in the number and quality of participating films.”
The festival showcases the most prominent cinema productions in the region, relying on an independent and objective methodology in selecting participating films. The four days of the event will witness the screening of more than 70 films from 20 countries and more, in addition to hosting 10 workshops and the attendance of more than 50 international stars and 15,000 visitors. It is scheduled The list of participating films will be announced in the coming weeks.
During the festival, a red carpet awards ceremony will be held, with the participation of an elite group of stars from the cinema and entertainment sectors and a group of regional and international celebrities. The closing evening will witness the honoring of distinguished films in multiple categories, with the aim of highlighting the exceptional talents that contribute to the development of the world of cinema.
This year’s awards include 12 different categories, including short films, feature films, documentaries, debut works, student projects, and films focused on sustainability, in addition to new categories dedicated to celebrating local talent that has shined in the UAE.
The festival is held under the slogan “Cinema and Sustainability,” in the direction of a sustainable lifestyle. It also aims to advance the film festival scene in the country by nurturing emerging talent, promoting diversity and sustainable practices, and celebrating filmmaking in the country.
In turn, Stephanie Alexandra Chartier, Head of Marketing at Wafi Group, said, “We are keen to support the production of local content, promote content in the Arabic language, and empower the younger generation in the cinema sector. Wafi City is characterized by a distinctive atmosphere and a vibrant cultural scene, which makes it the ideal destination to celebrate cinema and highlight Rising talents during the Meta Film Festival.
