The Doha Film Institute (DFI) is inviting filmmakers in Qatar and around the world to submit their films to take part in the eighth edition of the annual Ajyal Film Festival set to take place from 18th November 2020 to 23rd November 2020.
“Submissions for the 8th edition of our Ajyal Film Festival (18-23 November) are now open. Submit your films and be part of this annual celebration of local, regional and international cinema,” DFI has tweeted.
Ajyal, an Arabic word for ‘generations’, bridges gaps and bring generations together through activities and events which inspire creative interaction among the various sectors of the regional community.
Last year’s edition of the festival witnessed a diverse programme of 96 films from 39 countries around the world comprising 23 features and 73 shorts, including 50 from the Arab World and 56 by women filmmakers.
It presented an exciting slate of film screenings, events, exhibits and performances during its six-day run with key personalities in films and arts including regional and international talent in attendance. Like in the previous edition, this year’s festival format includes the Ajyal Competition, as well as the Made in Qatar section.
Alongside the official film programme, the festival also features special screenings, thematic tributes, Cinema Under the Stars and the Creativity Hub. The official selection for the Ajyal Competition has two categories including Feature Film Competition and Short Film Competition which both showcase a selection of narrative and documentary films from around the world for or about youth.
The Ajyal Competition categories are divided into three sections based on the age of jurors. Mohaq (New Moon) section has jurors aged eight to 12, while Hilal (Crescent) section is for jurors 13 to 17 years old and Bader (Full Moon) for jurors 18 to 21 years old. Last year witnessed over 450 young jurors from 45 countries, including 48 international jurors who travelled to Doha for the event.
In addition, there is also the Bariq (Sparkle) section which is composed of a short film programme dedicated to the youngest audience members, with jurors-in-training aged 4 to 7 and their families.
One of the highlights of the festival is the Made in Qatar section which showcases films shot in Qatar or made by individuals of any nationality who currently reside in Qatar. Submission for Ajyal Competition closes on 9th August 2020 and for Made in Qatar section on 3rd September 2020.
To submit your entries, please visit: DFI
