Algerian directors share challenges in filmmaking at 4th DTFF panel discussion

Doha, Qatar; November 21, 2012

Veteran directors from Algeria shared the challenges they face in filmmaking and the evolution of the country's film industry at a panel discussion hosted by the fourth Doha Tribeca Film Festival (DTFF), the annual cultural event of Doha Film Institute (DFI).

DTFF is presenting a special Algerian showcase to coincide with the country's 50^th year of Independence. In the 'Tribute to Algerian Cinema: Caught Between Past and Present,' four films that capture the frustrations, resilience and resounding hope of Algeria's people in the post-colonial era are being screened.

These include: Rome Rather Than You directed by Tariq Teguia; Winds of the Aures by Mohammed Lakhdar-Hamina; Omar Gatlato by Merzak Allouache; and Nouba of the Women of Mont Chenoua by Assia Djebar. DTFF is also screening Algerian films in its competition section including The Repentant by Merzak Allouache; Fidaï by Damien Ounouri, Goodbye Morocco by Nadir Moknèche and O My Body! by Laurent Aït Benalla.

The tribute culminates with a live performance by renowned Algerian jazz musician Safy Boutella at the official Awards ceremony on Thursday, who will perform a special tribute to the nation. The tribute showcase has been organised with support from Agence Algérienne pour le Rayonnement Culturel.

The panel discussion was attended by Joana Hadjithomas, Nadir Moknèche, Merzak Allouache, Damien Ounouri and Mohammed Lakhdar-Hamina.

The annual cultural event of Doha Film Institute (DFI), DTFF provides audiences a comprehensive and enriching cultural experience with new screening venues across Doha. Indoor and outdoor screenings take place at Katara Cultural Village, Museum of Islamic Arts and Souq Waqif.

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About Doha Film Institute:
Doha Film Institute (DFI) is an independent cultural organisation established in 2010 to incorporate Qatar's film initiatives under one banner; organically supporting the growth of the local film community by enhancing industry knowledge, cultivating film appreciation and contributing to the development of sustainable creative industries in Qatar. DFI's year-round platforms include funding and production of local, regional and international films, educational programmes, film screenings, and the annual Doha Tribeca Film Festival (DTFF).

With culture, community, education and entertainment at its foundation, DFI serves as an all-encompassing film hub in Doha, as well as a resource for the region and the rest of the world. DFI is committed to supporting Qatar's 2030 vision for the development of a knowledge-based economy. DFI has established a number of strategic cultural partnerships with leading local and international organisations including Tribeca Enterprises, World Cinema Foundation, Maisha Film Lab, Katara Cultural Village and Giffoni Film Festival.

For more information, please contact:
Majid Wasi
Ajay Teli

Doha Film Institute
Doha Film Institute

Tel: 00974 33247800
Tel: 00974 55406634

mwasi@dohafilminstitute.com
ateli@dohafilminstitute.com

Kelly Home / Nivine William / Divya Khanna
ASDA'A Burson-Marsteller; +9714 4507 600
Kelly.home@bm.com / Nivine.william@bm.com / Divya.khanna@bm.com