SICFF to promote young UAE filmmaking

Organisers of the Sharjah International Children's Film Festival (SICFF) are set to participate at the 69th Cannes Film Festival, to be held against the glamourous backdrop of the French Riviera, from 11 – 22 May, with its representatives once again aiming to introduce international audiences to the burgeoning young talent being developed by Sharjah’s film and TV industries.

SICFF will also be using the exposure that Europe’s premier film festival offers to make an announcement about a partnership it is forging with the UN’s World Food Programme. Full details about the partnership will be shared at the announcement scheduled for 14th May.

As part of a larger industry-related delegation from the UAE, SICFF will be accompanied by members of the Dubai Film and TV Commission, organisers of the Dubai International Film Festival and representatives from the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marking(DTCM). The delegation’s constituent members will all share space on a dedicated UAE Pavilion, at this year’s festival.

According to SICFF organisers, the benefits for young filmmakers and industry professionals participating in Cannes lie in the opportunities for all delegates to meet and perhaps partner and collaborate with different production companies. Cannes also offers a perfect platform for networking with directors, producers and films distributors, as well as offering the chance to attend film screenings of some of the world’s most innovative, up and coming filmmakers.

SICFF’s delegation will be headed by Jawaher bint Abdullah Al Qasimi, Director of both SICFF and FUNN -Sharjah Media Art for Youth and Children. Commenting on SICFF’s participation, at the 69th Cannes Film Festival, Jawaher Al Qasimi, highlighted the importance of attracting international interest and participation in helping to develop the UAE’s filmmaking industry.

“It is once again a privilege and a pleasure for SICFF to be attending and participating at the Cannes Film Festival and to have the opportunity to showcase some of the UAE’s young talent. This is a stage that will offer an amazing and enriching experience for all involved inthe motion picture industry in Sharjah and the United Arab Emirates.”

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah and Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs, for her ongoing support and patronage of Sharjah International Children’s Film Festival. Through her unwavering commitment to encouraging us to develop young Emirati talent, across this industry, we hope that our message can be passionately expressed to filmmaking communities across the world,” the SICFF Director added.

The 69th Cannes Film Festival or “Festival de Cannes” is a celebration of the art of cinematography and is an annual showpiece for new writing, new genres and new visual innovations in the filmmaking industry. Each year’s festival provides a window into whatconstitutes the latest and perhaps lasting contribution young and new filmmaking talents can contribute to the art of cinema. This year’s festival will run from 11-22 May.