The
Amman International Film (AIFF), concluded last night, deemed by
industry professionals and audiences as highly successful.
اضافة اعلان
Even though in
its third edition, it really felt like it was being shown for the first time,
considering that the previous two events were held during the pandemic — the
first virtually, the second with limited audience — which prevented them from
reaching their full potential.
In a very busy
week, 29 countries contributed 49 movies. It was an occasion for the Jordanian
film industry to demonstrate what it can do, with talented directors winning
international acclaim.
AIFF is held
under the umbrella of the Royal Film Commission, and enjoys the strong support
of HH Princess Rym Ali, the president of the festival; the focus is on young
Jordanian talents who wish to tell their stories through filmmaking.
The motto of
AIFF was First Film First Love. And it was not difficult to fall in love with
the event, thanks to the dedication and attention to detail of the organizers.
The 100 guests
from the region and the rest of the world, gave AIFF strong visibility. Besides
screening movies, the festival also consisted of a series of activities in an
atmosphere of joy, creativity, and friendliness. Although coming from the four
corners of the world, participants had no difficulty communicating with each
other and the audience through the artistic language of their cinematographic
productions.
AIFF usually
shows films that resist the commercial pressures of the standard mainstream
fare. It is through independent films made by independent voices that new ideas
are expressed.
Networking and learning
The rich program of activities held as part of the festival included
engaging panel discussions and master classes on aspects of filmmaking. These
were of interest to both filmmakers and to the public. Events like these are a
useful way to promote filmmakers and their productions, as well as to help
attendees learn what goes on behind the mysterious black curtains shrouding the
film industry.
AIFF strives to
create debate about important issues facing humanity, and the panel discussions
on a wide range of topics, managed to engage industry people and laypeople
alike.
As for the
people who works in the film industry, AIFF was a great way to expand their
circle of influence, and a terrific place to meet new people.
Platform for new
talent
AIFF has become a new place where filmmakers come to spot new talents
and have an opportunity to engage with experts.
Pitching
sessions where held, and awards to support upcoming film projects were given,
helping filmmakers develop or complete projects still in the pipeline, which
has been a priority for AIFF since its inception.
This year’s
festival introduced the Amman Film Market, giving filmmakers the opportunity to
network with potential funders, partners, and distributors.
Local community is
engaged
The festival succeeded in engaging the local community, with the
objective of inspiring a thought-provoking discussion, through a Q&A
session after most film screenings.
This year, more
interactive Q&A discussions were held to give the possibility of asking
questions directly to the filmmaker.
There is
something exciting about watching films with a diverse audience. It is a great
way to move conversation forward as a community, and enables people to explore
different thoughts and ideas on art and issues that it tackles. In the case of
filmmakers and artists, festivals nurture a community where they can find
supporters and collaborators.
AIFF this year
was a great way to unite a community that enjoys films, help it engage with the
filmmakers, as well as celebrate their stories.
At three
different venues, audiences were seen interacting with the guests and industry
experts. Celebrities like Dhafer La’Abddin, Carmen Lobs, George Kbaza, Saba
Mubark and others were warmly welcomed by their fans.
Well organized
The third edition of AIFF would not have been successful without the
hard work of the team of organizers, led by Nada Doumani, the director of the
festival, Areeb Zuaiter, head of film programming, Bassam Alasad, head of
industry, and the entire staff behind the scenes who exerted huge efforts to
make everything go smoothly.
Looking toward
the fourth edition, the film industry in Jordan is expanding, setting strong
foundations for a future talented generation of filmmakers in the region, with
hopes of more success and expansion.
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