Sharjah International Film Festival For Children & Youth Celebrates Success Of Its 11th Edition With Awards And Global Participation

The Sharjah International Film Festival for Children & Youth (SIFF) concluded its 11th edition with a grand ceremony at the Sharjah Research, Technology, and Innovation Complex. Under the patronage of Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs, the event celebrated outstanding filmmakers and industry professionals.

Sheikha Jawaher bint Abdullah Al Qasimi, General Director of FANN and SIFF, praised the festival's role in enhancing artistic appreciation among future generations. "The festival has evolved into a unique model in the Arab cultural scene, celebrating the cinema of children, teenagers, and youth while offering a platform for talented individuals to express their creative visions," she said.

The festival's prestigious competition recognised filmmakers in eight categories. "Amakor," directed by Ahmed Al-Khodary, won Best Feature Film. "Mar Mama," by Magdy Al-Omari, was awarded Best Arabic Short Film. The Best International Short Feature went to "Hooves," directed by Fargul Masroorad and Hossein Zeitounejad.

"The Seven Waves," directed by Asma Bseiso, claimed Best Documentary Film. In animation, Wojtek Favsztyk's "Diplodocus" won Best Animated Feature Film. "Lola and the Sound Piano," directed by Augusto Zanovilo, received Best Animated Short. Carolina Cruz's "Recordari" was named Best Student Film.

The 11th SIFF edition attracted over 50,000 visitors during its six-day run. Audiences enjoyed 100 films from more than 90 countries. Zimbabwe participated for the first time this year. The festival's "Green Carpet" platform premiered three films in the Middle East.

SIFF honoured Palestine as its inaugural guest of honour. This included showcasing Palestinian films and workshops inspired by Palestinian heritage. The closing ceremony also acknowledged supporters and partners like Sharjah Government Media Office (Strategic Media Partner) and Al Hilal Enterprises (Platinum Partner).

Streaming Partnerships

Sheikha Jawaher announced that this year's winning films would be available on major streaming platforms such as Apple, Amazon, Netflix, Hulu, and Roku through partnerships. This initiative highlights SIFF's commitment to supporting filmmakers and providing global audiences access to independent artistic works.

She expressed gratitude to the festival’s dedicated teams and volunteers for their crucial role in its success. She referred to them as the "spirit of the festival." Their efforts were pivotal in achieving an outstanding event.

The festival also received support from Emirates Airlines, Sharjah International Airport, AGMC – BMW, and Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority. These contributions were vital in ensuring a successful event that celebrated diverse cinematic talents.

With inputs from WAM