Ajyal Film Festival 2023

Doha Tribecca Film Festival 2012

  • In Conversation: Robert De Niro

    Robert De Niro is one of the greatest film actors of any generation, and has also secured great respect in his roles as director, producer and co-founder of New York City’s annual Tribeca Film Festival. The films in which he has given memorable and often iconic performances over the course of his lauded career include some of the most significant works in the history of cinema. Most recently, De Niro delivered an outstanding performance in David O. Russell’s ‘Silver Linings Playbook’, which met with huge success at its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, winning the coveted People’s Choice Award. In an intimate conversation with Tribeca Enterprises’ Chief Creative Officer Geoff Gilmore, De Niro will discuss some of the unique moments of his illustrious career.

    Sun, Nov 18, 07:00 PM

  • Emerging Cinema of Change hosted by Northwestern University In Qatar

    With the events of the past two years in the Arab world in mind, this panel examines the role of films and filmmakers during times of social change. As both witnesses and participants, Arab filmmakers have recorded, interpreted and inspired change. While there is an established tradition in Arab cinema of addressing social change, a new movement with a focus on youth and gender issues has recently emerged. What are the characteristics of this nascent movement? What role do these filmmakers play? What are their experiences? What types of social change are they advocating? To address these questions, this panel brings together a group of regionally known Arab filmmakers and artists from different generations and backgrounds. Their films represent at once the continuity of socially conscious films, and an evolving cinematic language and form. NB: This panel will be conducted in Arabic with simultaneous English translation

    Thu, Nov 22, 04:00 PM

  • Transmedia Storytelling in the Digital Age

    As technology develops, it affects the way we tell, understand and enjoy stories. Reading novels, watching movies or telling an amusing tale over dinner with friends now compete with online communication and device interaction. What happens when the traditional ways we tell and consume stories converge with new technologies? From immersive games to interactive websites, multi-platform storytelling is becoming the new standard of audience engagement. DTFF presents a look at how filmmakers and media creators are choosing to tell their stories in the new age of social media and technology. Join a panel of industry experts who are pushing the boundaries of how we experience stories and what the future holds for gaming, film and storytelling in the 21st century.

    Mon, Nov 19, 04:30 PM

  • The Global Landscape: Making ‘The Reluctant Fundamentalist’

    ‘An Indian director making a film about a Pakistani man. That’s not an easy thing to do,’ says co-screenwriter Mohsin Hamid of Mira Nair’s film based on his novel. ‘The Reluctant Fundamentalist’ is the second major international production to receive financing from Doha Film Institute and screens at DTFF in the prestigious opening night spot. Nair’s most ambitious project to date, the film depicts two very different worlds coming together through the central character’s journey. It was shot in five cities on three continents with a truly international crew and a cast of Hollywood, Pakistani and Indian stars, led by Riz Ahmed, Kate Hudson, Om Puri, Shabana Azmi, Liev Schreiber and Kiefer Sutherland. Documentarian Marian Lacombe was on set to capture the process. DTFF is pleased to present her exclusive behind-the-scenes documentary followed by a discussion with Mira Nair. Join us for a unique insight into the filmmaking process, and an exploration of the practical and creative elements of the production.

    Sun, Nov 18, 04:00 PM

  • Going Global: Can Bollywood Films Really Crossover?

    Bollywood has witnessed some dramatic transformations over the last decade. The progress of technology and new models of film production, distribution and exhibition have given rise to a variety of innovative business models – and a growing audience base. This panel will trace the journey of commercial Hindi films into the global arena, and address some key issues: Why has Bollywood so far been unable to appeal to a broad global audience while smaller, independent Indian films continue to find international acclaim? How can Bollywood take its product to viewers outside and beyond the Indian diaspora? How can commercial Hindi cinema reach the next level of audience saturation? And just as importantly, does it even need to?

    Wed, Nov 21, 04:00 PM

  • Valentino's Ghost: Extended Q&A with Michael Singh

    Brought up in India, director Michael Singh lives in Los Angeles. He has written and produced documentaries, films and television series, and directed several short documentaries. In ‘Valentino’s Ghost’, Singh explores the links between the images of Arabs and Muslims provided by American mass media over the course of the past century, and American foreign policy in the Middle East. To do so, he exploits a wealth of archival material, including images from classic films, news broadcasts and historical footage; interviewing journalists, media experts and leading intellectuals as he tries to uncover the truth of the representation of Arabs in media and film. The film was an official selection of the Venice Film Festival in September, where it generated a great deal of interest and dialogue. An extended Q&A session will be held after the film’s screening at DTFF allowing Singh and the audience can discuss the themes and issues raised in the film.

    Thu, Nov 22, 06:30 PM

  • No Entry for Men: Extended Q&A with Rambod Javan

    Rambod Javan’s ‘No Entry for Men’ met with huge success at the box office in Iran. A charming romantic comedy, it takes place in an all-girls’ school where, for the first time ever, a man is brought onto the teaching staff – and a hilarious battle of the sexes ensues. The film marks Javan’s second film as a director; prior to his film work, he directed television series. He is also a noted actor, known in his native Iran for his stage, film and television work. In an extended post-screening Q&A session, Javan will discuss ‘No Entry for Men’ and field questions from the audience

    Mon, Nov 19, 06:00 PM

  • Family Days Event - Wednesday

    Bring the whole family to enjoy films, activities and fun during four days of DTFF. All non-screening events at Family Days are free and offer activities for kids of all ages. Enjoy live entertainment, creative workshops and interactive experiences in locations throughout Katara Cultural Village.

    Wed, Nov 21, 04:00 PM

  • Khaleeji Films: Overcoming Stereotypes

    Traditionally, storytelling has always played a central role in Arab culture. Do Khaleeji films rely on stereotypes, or are we at a turning point, looking to follow tradition and find new ways of creative expression? Four film professionals from the Gulf region will discuss contemporary Khaleeji storytelling and new regional and international influences on it. NB: This panel will be conducted in Arabic with simultaneous English translation

    Wed, Nov 21, 02:00 PM

  • Express Yourself- Family Day Panel

    Express Yourself! Families and youth are invited to explore how artists express themselves in film. Through demonstrations and hands-on participation, this family panel will explore the use of animation, dance, music and art in the movies and encourage everyone to find the artist within themselves.

    Sat, Nov 24, 02:00 PM

  • Arab Hip Hop Concert

    Arab hip hop is giving voice to a youth-led movement for change, echoing the hopes, dreams and frustrations of the Arab people. In celebration of ‘Lyrics Revolt’, we proudly present some of the best hip-hop artists from the MENA region in a free concert.

    Sun, Nov 18, 09:30 PM

  • DFI Film Appreciation Lecture: The Use of Sound in Filmmaking

    Professor Bruce Browne from the Community College of Qatar presents a lecture that is the final installment of DFI’s five-week Film Appreciation Course. The lecture explores the use of sound in filmmaking, using clips from classic films to demonstrate diegetic vs. non-diegetic sound, voiceover narration, and the balance of dialogue with music.

    Sun, Nov 18, 07:00 PM

  • Arab Film Competition Awards Ceremony

    DTFF’s Arab Film Competition acclaims the rising voices and established practitioners of the Middle East and North Africa, honouring the best in narrative, documentary and short films from the region. Awards will be presented in eight categories in a ceremony in Souq Waqif’s Al Rayyan Theatre, attended by representatives from films in competition, special guests, regional industry representatives and the esteemed members of our Juries. Tunisian actress Hend Sabry serves as Jury President for 2012. Renowned for her powerful performances and commitment to social issues, Sabry has helped shape the face of modern Arab cinema and is one of the most acclaimed stars of her generation. The ceremony will feature a special performance by renowned Algerian jazz musician Safy Boutella as part of our special tribute to Algeria. Join us to honour the voices of our region.

    Thu, Nov 22, 07:00 PM

  • Family Days Event - Thursday

    Bring the whole family to enjoy films, activities and fun during four days of DTFF. All non-screening events at Family Days are free and offer activities for kids of all ages. Enjoy live entertainment, creative workshops and interactive experiences in locations throughout Katara Cultural Village.

    Thu, Nov 22, 04:00 PM

  • Family Days Event - Friday

    Bring the whole family to enjoy films, activities and fun during four days of DTFF. All non-screening events at Family Days are free and offer activities for kids of all ages. Enjoy live entertainment, creative workshops and interactive experiences in locations throughout Katara Cultural Village.

    Fri, Nov 23, 02:00 PM

  • Family Days Event - Saturday

    Bring the whole family to enjoy films, activities and fun during four days of DTFF. All non-screening events at Family Days are free and offer activities for kids of all ages. Enjoy live entertainment, creative workshops and interactive experiences in locations throughout Katara Cultural Village.

    Sat, Nov 24, 02:00 PM

  • Distribution and How to Make Your Film Travel

    A movie only exists if it is seen by an audience. How do you get your film to travel, cross borders and be seen outside your home country – if in fact it is even seen in your home country or local festival at all. What are the various forms of distribution? How do they work? What does a sales agent really do? How do you attract one? These questions will be addressed by leading industry experts with a wealth of knowledge and experience, helping you understand how different territories, market trends and distribution platforms affect how and by whom your film will be seen, and where the audience you want for your film can be found.

    Sun, Nov 18, 10:00 AM

  • When is Enough, Enough?

    The processes of film development, production and especially post-production can go on for what seems like forever. Nevertheless, everyone involved in the effort of bringing a film to the screen knows there's an optimal golden moment when the material sings – which hopefully also means satisfied audiences and overjoyed financiers. What does it take to find this anticipated sweet spot? How do we know when we've arrived? An Award winning writer, director, producer and editor will share their experiences to help shed light on and embrace the process of story development from script to screen and beyond.

    Mon, Nov 19, 10:00 AM

  • Investment Strategies in the Global Film Industry Hosted by Miramax

    What financial infrastructure is required to co-finance films within the Arab world? What are the most efficient and risk-avoidant methods of financing film projects? A distinguished group of leading financiers and executives representing various aspects of the global film industry will explore the current state of independent film financing and what the future might hold for a nascent pan-Arab film-financing ecosystem. The panel of industry experts will engage Qatar’s business community, offering valuable insight into emerging trends, risk mitigation, available financing options, distribution models, engaging sales agents, protecting investment, private equity, required legal documentation and practical approaches to structuring financing transactions. Further topics for discussion include bank debt, mezzanine financing, subsidies and tax incentives, completion bonds, collection agreements, emerging markets and how to harness private capital for viable film proposals. 'Private/ Invite only event'

    Sun, Nov 18, 12:00 PM

  • Transmedia Workshop

    The convergence of interactive media, entertainment and education is a key global trend in contemporary film and media production. Story architect Mahyad Tousi, CEO & Cofounder of BoomGen Studios, discusses the creation of his company’s ‘Operation Ajax’ project. Using a variety of media platforms, including an award-winning iOS graphic novel application, a video game, educational tools and a feature film, ‘Operation Ajax’ tells the story of a critical and too-often ignored historical event: the 1953 Iranian coup d’état that was orchestrated by the UK and the USA.

    Tue, Nov 20, 10:00 AM

  • Master Class with Screenwriters Neal Purvis and Robert Wade

    Neal Purvis and Robert Wade have been called one of the UK’s most successful screenwriting partnerships. They have written five of the ‘James Bond’ screenplays, from ‘The World Is Not Enough’ to ‘Skyfall’, which is currently being released internationally. Their script for ‘Casino Royale’ was nominated for a BAFTA for Best Adapted Screenplay. In this master class, Purvis and Wade share their experiences and expertise as we examine how the written word is translated to the screen, and what it takes to be a successful screenwriter.

    Mon, Nov 19, 01:30 PM

  • Family Photography Workshops and Contest - Wednesday

    Doha Tribeca Film Festival Family Programmes and Qatar Photographic Society invites families to come together and learn how to take better pictures at a Family Photography Workshop at the Qatar Photographic Society in Katara, Cultural Village.

    Wed, Nov 21, 03:30 PM

  • Family Photography Workshops and Contest - Thursday

    Doha Tribeca Film Festival Family Programmes and Qatar Photographic Society invites families to come together and learn how to take better pictures at a Family Photography Workshop at the Qatar Photographic Society in Katara, Cultural Village.

    Thu, Nov 22, 03:30 PM