The event was in the presence of Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Government Relations in Sharjah, Sheikha Jawaher bint Abdullah Al Qasimi, Director of "FANN" and the Festival, Sheikh Salem bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Director of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, along with a distinguished gathering of artists, directors, and film industry professionals from the UAE and around the world.
During the opening ceremony, Sheikha Jawaher bint Abdullah Al Qasimi, Director of the FANN and the festival, announced the cooperation of SIFF with the Big Heart Foundation in supporting the children of Palestine, as its entire proceeds will be allocated to the relief campaign launched recently, which aims to provide relief to the Palestinian brothers affected by the war in the Gaza Strip, calling at the same time for the need to defend the innocence of children and give them their rights and the better days they deserve.
In her inspiring speech, Sheikha Jawaher bint Abdullah Al Qasimi underscored the festival's remarkable transformation over the past decade, becoming a wellspring of inspiration for future generations and a global platform that nurtures the artistic and creative potential of children and youth. She credited this success to the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi and the unwavering support of Sheikha Jawaher Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, making the festival a unique and influential cultural force that celebrates the world of cinema for young audiences.
She continued, "We celebrate the Sharjah International Film Festival for Children and Youth's remarkable journey as it enters its tenth year, bringing to life over 80 captivating stories told in various languages and dialects. These stories serve as cultural bridges that connect us to other societies, offering diverse perspectives and unveiling real truths. This reinforces that cinema is a sophisticated tool for enlightenment and education."
Emirati artist Ahmed Al Jasmi expressed his delight at being chosen as the festival's guest of honor and receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award, in addition to the distinguished speakers award. He praised the festival for confidently establishing itself as a prominent fixture among international film festivals, earning a stellar reputation in both Arab and global artistic circles. He emphasized the essential role of cinema in shaping cultural landscapes and fostering cultural understanding.
He remarked, "The seventh art has long been a central part of the cultural fabric in many societies, serving as a valuable ambassador and preserving cultures and traditions through timeless cinematic works."
Egyptian artist Hussein Fahmy expressed his gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi and the festival's management for bestowing upon him the Lifetime Achievement Award. He recognized the immense significance of this honor, particularly as it comes from the Emirate of Sharjah, which holds a special place in his heart.
Egyptian artist Jan Ramez, star of the movie "The Boogeyman," was deeply appreciative of the festival for hosting him and presenting him with the Distinguished Speakers Award. He noted that it was his first time being honored at a film festival, and he considered it a memory that would stay with him forever. He conveyed his commitment to pursuing various goals and sharing meaningful messages through his future works.
Tariq Al-Rimawi, the director of the film "The Zoo," which opened the festival's activities, revealed that his film drew inspiration from the story of the Gaza Strip's zoo, once labeled the world's worst zoo due to the 2014 conflict. He described the film's plot, centered around the friendship that develops between a child and a young tiger. The story unfolds as Sami, a child searching for his lost ball, stumbles upon the zoo. There, he forms a unique bond with a young tiger as they seek a safe place to play, despite the dangers that linger from the remnants of war.
The star-studded opening ceremony was graced by the presence of numerous artists and luminaries from the Emirates, the Gulf, and the wider Arab region. Prominent figures included Egyptian artist Hussein Fahmy, Egyptian artist Laila Elwi, Egyptian screenwriter Medhat El Adl, Syrian actor Samer Al Masry, Kuwaiti Tariq Al Ali, Emirati Ahmed Al Jasmi, and Dr. Habib Ghuloum, among others. The event also featured a distinguished lineup of directors, filmmakers, and professionals from the local and international cinema sectors.
The opening ceremony also marked the introduction of the festival's jury committees, comprised of accomplished directors and film experts from 11 Arab and foreign countries. and 20 promising young judges who participate for the first time, ensuring a diverse perspective in the category of "Films made by children and young people."
The tenth edition of the festival, running until October 28 at Vox Cinema in City Center Al Zahia, promises an extraordinary lineup of 81 films hailing from 37 countries worldwide. Among these, the festival proudly features cinematic creations from countries participating for the first time, including the Kingdom of Bhutan, the Republics of Montenegro and Malta, Togo, and Vietnam. The festival also boasts the premiere of three films on the global stage, with 43 films making their Middle East debut.
Adding to the festival's allure, the "Green Carpet" platform showcases four feature films: "Nzouh," "Little Nicholas," "She is from Another Planet," and "Valley Road." This platform provides audiences with the unique opportunity to meet the directors and film crews, gaining insight into their experiences in the world of cinema and the making of these remarkable works. The festival's vibrant schedule also includes eight engaging dialogue sessions led by artists, directors, and industry specialists, delving into various aspects of the film industry aimed at children and youth."
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