CineMAS Film Festival Showcases Global Independent Cinema In May

CineMAS, the annual independent film festival, returns this May for its sixth edition with a captivating line-up of award-winning films from the UAE, the region, and around the world. Curated by Oscar-nominated filmmaker and visual artist Scandar Copti, the festival showcases thought-provoking films across a variety of genres, including drama, comedy, and documentary.

Set to run from 20th to 26th May at Manarat Al Saadiyat, the alternative film festival will also feature discussions with directors. A celebration of the best in independent cinema, CineMAS 2024 carefully selects each film for its compelling storytelling and artistic merit, providing a window into the human experience and bridging diverse communities.

This year’s edition will kick off with Emirati filmmaker Humaid Al Suwaidi’s feature film ‘Dalma’. The story follows Dana, an Emirati woman who moves to Dalma Island upon inheriting a decrepit house from her recently deceased father. The film had its world premiere at the Red Sea International Film Festival and takes viewers on an emotional journey of self-exploration.

The festival will also feature an Oscar-nominated environmental documentary, ‘All That Breathes’ by Indian filmmaker Shaunak Sen. Additionally, a moving sci-fi documentary titled ‘Lyd’ by directorial duo Sarah Ema Friedland and Rami Younes will be showcased. Sudanese drama ‘Goodbye Julia’ by emerging talent Mohamed Kordofani is another highlight.

CineMAS 2024 includes a retrospective of a film series by artist Lawrence Abu Hamdan. The festival also presents an impressive selection of short films. Among them is a Golden-Bear-winning short by filmmakers Michelle and Noel Keserwany titled ‘Les Chenilles’.

Curator's Background

Scandar Copti, the curator of this year’s edition of CineMAS, is an Oscar-nominated filmmaker and visual artist. His first feature film 'Ajami' won the Camera d'Or Special Mention at the Cannes Film Festival and was nominated for the 82nd Academy Awards in the Best Foreign Film category. Copti teaches filmmaking at New York University Abu Dhabi.

Currently, Copti is working on the post-production of his upcoming feature film 'Happy Holidays' and developing his forthcoming documentary ‘A Childhood’.

CineMAS 2024 promises to be an enriching experience for cinema enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of films that highlight unique stories from around the globe.

With inputs from WAM