DIFF chief, French Ambassador discuss national cinema tribute

Special DIFF 2009 segment strengthens relations with French studios and filmmakers, celebrates Franco-Arab cinematic ties

Cinema fans across the UAE will enjoy the best of classic and contemporary French cinema at the Dubai International Film Festival this year, the French Ambassador to the UAE has confirmed. His Excellency Alain Azouaou met with DIFF Chairman Abdulhamid Juma this week to discuss the line-up of films slated for the DIFF 2009 ‘In Focus: France’ segment.

The Festival’s annual national tribute to cinematic excellence is expected to receive actors, directors and celebrities from the world of French cinema.

Ambassador Azouaou said DIFF will add a new dimension to France’s cultural activity in the UAE. “We are delighted that the Dubai International Film Festival, one of the most celebrated events in the Middle East, has chosen to showcase France and its cinematic traditions this year. The French community is very excited to play a part in this vibrant cultural occasion, and we look forward to sharing our cinematic heritage with audiences from around the world here in Dubai,” he said.

In 2007, DIFF secured a strategic alliance with the prestigious Cannes Producers Network, guaranteeing the producers of the three winning Dubai Film Connection projects complimentary registration to the network.

The Connection, the seed fund of the Festival, features a grant from French broadcaster ARTE as a token of its support to productions from the Arab world. The €6000 ‘International Relations ARTE Prize’, awarded to a project showing outstanding originality, personal writing and consistency, is currently in its third year.

DIFF Chairman Abdulhamid Juma said the ‘In Focus’ segment recognises France’s primary role in developing Arab cinema. “French directors, broadcasters, studios and film funds have played a significant role in the development of Arab cinema around the world, and the Arab world owes a great deal to their contribution.”

He said: “DIFF already counts ARTE and Cannes Producers Network among its many prestigious partners, and we look forward to working closely with the UAE’s French community to produce an authentic and popular programme this December.”

The sixth Dubai International Film Festival will run from December 9 – 16, 2009.