Sharjah Film Platform returns for its seventh edition

The event will highlight the best of regional cinema.

Sharjah has tons to offer. With a wide selection of dining and entertainment options, this emirate definitely houses some of the best spots in the UAE. Sharjah is also the cultural hub of the UAE, and this time around, it’s bringing back its annual film festival, the Sharjah Film Platform (SFP).

Taking place from 15 to 24 November 2024 at Mirage City Cinema and City Centre Al Zahia, the Sharjah Film Platform 7 is one to keep an eye out for. Bringing 30 international films from around the world, this festival promises 10 days of cinematic glory.

The Competition section of Sharjah Film Platform 7 brings a mix of documentary and fiction films competing for the Sharjah Film Platform Awards. This time around, films from Bahrain, Bhutan, Colombia, Myanmar, Nigeria, Palestine and Rwanda will be showcased to the attendees. These include A Fidai Film, Places of the Soul, Cu Li Never Cries and The Great Yawn of History, to name a few. Post-screenings, Q&A sessions with the film directors will be held.

The Director in Focus category as part of Sharjah Film Platform 7 will shine a spotlight on Mohamad Malas this year. Hailing from Syria, his films offer a different perspective of his homeland. He will also be conducting a masterclass highlighting the importance of storytelling, and offering invaluable insights to aspiring filmmakers.

An exciting addition this year is the Sharjah Film Platform Feature Fund, which awards AED 500,000 AED to a UAE-based filmmaker for the production of a feature-length film in English or Arabic. Replacing the former Pitching Forum, this fund aims to provide support to local filmmakers, encouraging more homegrown stories to make it to the big screen.

Apart from the competitions and filmmaker talks, Sharjah Film Platform 7 will also feature a series of public programs. These will explore modern African and Asian cinema and the role of film as a tool of resistance and resilience, particularly in Palestine.

So if you’re a film buff, an aspiring filmmaker, or just someone looking to have a good time in Sharjah, Sharjah Film Platform 7 should definitely be on your list to attend.

GO: Visit www.sharjahart.org for more information.