Deadline for Muhr Awards Extended to 1 October

Dubai: 22 September, 2006 -The overwhelming response to Dubai International Film Festival's (DIFF) first Arab Film Competition has prompted organizers to extend the deadline to 1 October.

Acknowledging entries to DIFF's competitive segment, Masoud Amralla Al Ali, Artistic Director of Arab Programming and Head of Arab Film Competition said the 'Muhr Awards for Excellence in Arab Cinema' has generated tremendous interest amongst the filmmaking community in the UAE and the region.

He added: "With the opening of cultural and financial opportunities, Arab filmmakers are demonstrating an increased initiative in cinema as an avenue for definitive creative expression.

"The competition represents not only an awakening of the film industry, but also reflects an acceptance of the medium as a craft."

The Arab Film Competition is part of the festival's overall strategy to encourage and support the growth of the region's Arab film industry. In line with this objective, the competition is open to filmmakers of Arab nationality or descent. The subject and storyline of the film must deal with Arab history, culture, or issues concerning the Arabic community.

All entries for the Muhr Awards will be reviewed by a top judging panel from the international and Arab film community. Entrants of selected submissions will be notified by 15 November.

The three prize winning directors in each category will be awarded attractive cash prizes at the festival, which is scheduled to run from 10-17 December 2006. 

Competition criteria details and entry forms for DIFF 2006 are available on www.dubaifilmfest.com, the official website of the Dubai International Film Festival.

-Ends-

About- The Dubai International Film Festival
In 2004, a new festival joined the ranks of the world's international film festivals. Using the powerful medium of film to serve as a platform for inter-cultural dialogue and an instrument of global understanding, the Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF) launched with its theme of 'Bridging Cultures. Meeting Minds.'

Going into its third year, the DIFF is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and under the Chairmanship of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum. The DIFF is a not-for-profit cultural event, presented and organized by the Dubai Technology and Media Free Zone Authority.

DIFF showcases a wide selection of features, shorts and documentaries, from around the world, reflecting Dubai's cosmopolitan and multi-cultural character. The festival further seeks to celebrate excellence in Arab and world cinema by screening a repertoire of critically acclaimed and award winning films.

Located at the crossroads of East and West, and one of the world's fastest growing business and tourist destinations, Dubai provides an ideal meeting point for industry friends and colleagues from around the globe. The array of panel discussions at DIFF instigates a healthy exchange of ideas among a group of progressive film industry professionals, and the networking initiatives hosted by DIFF provide a conducive setting for conducting business.

In both its previous editions, the festival has attracted the attendance of prominent industry figures, including filmmakers and talent from as many as 46 different countries. Several past DIFF guests are currently scouting locations in Dubai for their new film projects.

DIFF 2005
Last year, DIFF took place from December 11 to 17, against the magnificent backdrop of the Madinat Jumeirah Arabian Resort. The festival's registration figures increased dramatically and the audience grew from approximately 18,000 in 2004 to over 30,000 in 2005. The 2005 festival showcased 98 films from 46 different countries, which included 22 Gulf premieres, 38 Middle East premieres, 7 International premieres and 6 World premieres.

DIFF 2006
The third edition of DIFF will take place in early December, 2006. For information on this year's festival, including details on film submission, media and industry accreditation, and other new developments, please visit the website www.dubaifilmfest.com during the year.

For further information, please contact:
Majid Wasi
Account Manager
Jiwin
Tel:  +9714 361 3333
Fax: +9714 368 8001
Email: majid.wasi@jiwin.ae

Deepa Asnani
Marketing and Communications Manager
Dubai International Film Festival
Tel: +971 4 391 3378
Direct: +971 4 391 4548
Fax: +971 4 391 4589
Email: deepa.asnani@dubaimediacity.ae

© Press Release 2006