Words: Santiago Guerra
Highlights and Where to Watch META film festival movies.
Since its inception last year, the META Film Fest has swiftly become a dynamic force in the Middle Eastern and African cinema scene, marking its debut as a first-of-its-kind event in the vibrant city of Dubai in 2022. This innovative festival, conceptualized by the META Cinema Forum, has showcased some of the most exciting regional and international cinematic works to the Emirati audience, establishing itself as a groundbreaking platform for both emerging and established filmmakers.
Regrettably, this year’s edition was cancelled due to the unfortunate events in Gaza and Israel, a significant blow to the film community. The festival would have featured 95 films from 32 countries and a special selection of 30 Arabic films, poised to be the festival’s crowning jewels.
Indeed, this year’s edition was anticipated to surpass 2022’s inaugural event, which had thousands of visitors from the UAE and the region. The debut edition featured an impressive lineup of 67 films from 25 countries. ‘Emily,’ a masterful piece directed by Frances O’Connor, was its opening film, setting a high bar for future festivals. The participation of Oscar-winning producer Andres Vincent Gomez further enhanced the festival’s prestige.
In light of these developments, Mojeh aims to offer alternative options for some of the anticipated films so viewers can enjoy them online or at other festivals.
Festival Highlights
The lineup for the year promised an eclectic mix of local and global cinema. Standouts included Özcan Alper’s “Black Night” from Turkey, Kazakhstan’s “Bodyguard” directed by Akan Satayev, and “Our Ties” by Roschdy Zem of France.
Black Night Trailer
The festival was also set to feature “Snow and the Bear,” graced by this year’s Cannes Best Actress winner Merve Dizdar.
Unexpected Gems
Abbas Amini’s “Endless Borders” was selected as the opening film for the festival. The Persian-speaking (Iranian, Czech-Republican) feature has won several awards, including Rotterdam’s “VPRO Big Screen Award” and Tirana’s film festivals’ “Best Feature Film” competition. Meanwhile, “Virginal Pink,” an Argentinian film directed by Dennis Smith and starring Juana Viale, was chosen as the festival’s closing film.
Still from Endless Borders
Two films from Kuwait, “Akh” and “How I Got There,” were highly anticipated in the Feature Film competition. Other highlights in the category included “Sons of Ramses” (French), “No End” (Iranian), and “Jananam 1947 Pranayam Thudarunnu” (Indian).
*Los textos que puse en naranja son cambios porque, aunque las películas sean en esos idiomas, son de otro lugar
Where to Watch
Here are some movies you might be able to find online or catch at your favourite streaming service
Alikal
Alikal, a product of Dream 6 Productions, originated from the creative minds of six film students at Manipal University’s Dubai Campus. The talented team of Shradha Bittu, Muhammad Shelan, Hanzil Hydar, Fadiya Nazeer, and Lamia Baiju brought the project to life. This 17-minute short film weaves together five compelling stories, exploring themes of love and friendship in everyday situations. It delves into various narratives, including the unique love between a man and his car, the heartache of loss, and tributes to the memorable and everlasting bonds of friendship.
“Alikal” is accessible to a global audience YouTube offering a glimpse into the emerging talent in the world of short films.
And Me I’m Dancing Too
Mohammad Valizadegan’s 20-minute documentary offers an intimate look into the life of Saba, a young Iranian woman who finds solace and freedom in dancing, an act forbidden in her homeland.
The film blurs the lines between documentary and fiction, painting a vivid portrait of a generation confined by strict societal norms. It’s a story of rebellion, liberation, and the transformative power of dance.
This moving documentary is scheduled for screening at DokuFest Kosovo from August 2-10, 2024, offering a rare insight into Iranian culture and the universal language of dance.
Winners
Director Hassan Nazer weaves a heartwarming tale set in a small Iranian town. The film follows young Yahya and his friend Leyla, who discover a precious statue and spark a quest to find its owner.
This BAFTA Scotland and Raindance-winning film’s a celebration of the enchanting world of cinema, featuring performances by the likes of Reza Naji as Nasser Khan, who helps the children in their quest.
“Winners” is available for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime, offering a slice of Iranian life and the magic of childhood discoveries.
Little Kungpoo Goats
Created by Kianoush and Farzad Dalvand, this animated film presents a unique world where a ninja warrior, “Red Shadow”, maintains a truce between predators and prey.
The story escalates when a wolf, tired of vegetarian recipes, seeks a legal way to hunt goats, unaware they are skilled martial arts students. It’s an action-packed, family-friendly movie with a twist.
The film can be enjoyed at the 54th International Film Festival of India in Goa, showcasing a blend of humour, action, and animal antics.
May December
Directed by the acclaimed Todd Haynes and starring Natalie Portman and Julianne Moore, the film delves into the life of an actress researching a controversial woman. The film explores deep themes of guilt, denial, and performance, set against a complex narrative involving a past marriage and its impact on the present.
Currently showing in cinemas, “May December” will soon be available on Netflix, offering audiences a compelling drama filled with star power and intriguing storytelling.
