Dubai International Film Festival Bridges Cultures
Dubai is an exciting city, rich with culture and progressive with arts and entertainment. The launching of its International Film Festival in 2004 is a perfect example of this. One of the primary missions of the festival is to bridge cultures and bring together minds. The organizers believe in the power of film to create dialogues between people and nations and bring a greater understanding of differing social views. Another, and just as important, intention is to nurture the development of filmmakers and offer support at an international level. As with many other aspects of Dubai’s culture, tourists are drawn there in increasing numbers. During major events such as the International Film Festival it can be difficult, though not impossible, to find availability in a 5 star hotel in Dubai.
Since its beginning in 2004, the festival has grown a great deal and continues to do so each year. During its initial year, 76 films were shown. This has steadily grown and in 2008 the number was 181. The same trend is seen in the number of countries represented by the festival through the years. In 2004 there were 27 countries participating, this grew to 66 countries by the year 2008. This growth is continuing and the 2009 festival, which will take place this December, is expected to be the greatest event yet.
The 2008 festival serves as a major indication of the effects the festival is having on Dubai, and the recognition and respect it’s receiving from the world. There were 47,500 audience members who attended the screenings of 181 films. In addition to this there were approximately 1000 industry professionals in attendance. This included professionals from both the local and international scene. Movie stars such as Goldie Hawn, Ben Affleck, Nicolas Cage and Salma Hayek were there to walk the red carpet as well as many more. Terry Gilliam, of Monty Python fame, was one of the 2008 festival Honourees.
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