Image Nation Abu Dhabi And Timur Bekmambetov Reveal Winners Of First UAE Screenlife Accelerator Programme

Image Nation Abu Dhabi, a prominent film and entertainment studio in the Middle East, has announced the winners of the UAE's inaugural Screenlife Accelerator Programme. This initiative, launched in June 2024, was developed in partnership with Hollywood filmmaker Timur Bekmambetov and his production company, Bazelevs. The programme aimed to teach UAE nationals and residents the screenlife filmmaking format, where stories are told entirely through computer or smartphone screens.

The programme involved an intensive 12-week course designed to guide aspiring filmmakers. From this course, thirteen filmmakers were chosen to create a pilot for their concept. Among these finalists, eight projects stood out as winners, earning support to advance their scripts further. This initiative highlights Image Nation Abu Dhabi's dedication to fostering new talent and promoting innovative storytelling methods.

Ben Ross, CEO of Image Nation Abu Dhabi, expressed enthusiasm about the programme's success. He stated that as Abu Dhabi and the UAE continue to establish themselves as leaders in creative industries, their collaboration on screenlife reflects a commitment to innovation in filmmaking. "We were overwhelmed with the level of talent we saw during the program – and look forward to bringing these projects to life," he said.

Timur Bekmambetov, known for pioneering the screenlife format, emphasised its potential for social impact. He explained that screenlife is not just a new storytelling language but also a tool that democratizes cinema access through technology. "All our best screenlife films were made by first-time filmmakers," he noted. Bekmambetov hopes that the accelerator’s finalists will soon join this group of successful storytellers.

This achievement underscores Image Nation Abu Dhabi’s role in shaping the future of filmmaking within the region. As digital advancements continue to transform the industry, screenlife projects offer a cost-effective way to create compelling narratives that connect with modern audiences. By championing this format, Image Nation Abu Dhabi is nurturing local talent while positioning the UAE as a global centre for innovative cinematic storytelling.

The Screenlife Accelerator Programme represents a significant step forward for emerging filmmakers in underserved communities. It provides them with opportunities previously limited by budget constraints and industry connections. This initiative aligns with Image Nation Abu Dhabi's vision of showcasing unique stories from the UAE on an international stage.

The programme's success highlights how technology can open doors for new voices in cinema. By supporting these filmmakers, Image Nation Abu Dhabi is contributing to a more diverse and inclusive film industry. As these projects develop further, they promise to bring fresh perspectives and untold stories to audiences worldwide.

With inputs from WAM