Arab Cinema Center (ACC) organized two dynamic panels
Amidst the glitz and glamour of the 74th Berlin International Film Festival's European Film Market (EFM), the Arab Cinema Center (ACC) took center stage, orchestrating two dynamic panels that captivated audiences and underscored the rising prominence of Arab cinema on the global stage. These panels, which focused on MENA box-office insights and the burgeoning Saudi film industry, drew a diverse audience of international and Arab filmmakers, signaling the growing interest and relevance of Arab cinema in the global landscape.
The first panel, aptly titled "Box-Office Bonanza," provided a deep dive into the MENA region's box-office performance, which has been inching towards an impressive $1 billion milestone. Featuring prominent industry figures such as Wayne Borg from NEOM, Gianluca Chakra from Front Row Entertainment, Mario Haddad Jr. from Empire International, and Alaa Karkouti from MAD Solutions, the discussion was moderated by Melanie Goodfellow from Deadline. Panelists shed light on the factors driving the region's box-office success, explored emerging trends, and discussed strategies for further growth and development.
The second panel, "International Tipping Point for Saudi Filmmaking," offered a compelling exploration of the evolution of the Saudi film industry over the past 12 years. Distinguished speakers including Mohannad Al-Bakri from the Jordanian Royal Film Commission, producers Doroth Beinemeier and Mariam Sassine, and Imad Iskandar from the Red Sea Film Fund, shared insights into the challenges and opportunities shaping the Saudi cinematic landscape. Michael Rosser from Screen International expertly moderated the discussion, delving into the transformative potential of Saudi filmmaking on the global stage.
In addition to curating thought-provoking panels, ACC's presence at the Berlinale was marked by a series of impactful initiatives. The release of a new edition of AC Magazine showcased the latest developments and trends in Arab cinema, while the recognition of Mohannad Al-Bakri as its Arab Personality of 2023 celebrated his contributions to the industry. Furthermore, the announcement of the latest critics to join the jury of its Arab Critics' Awards highlighted ACC's commitment to nurturing critical discourse and recognizing excellence in Arab cinema.
Founded a decade ago by MAD Solutions, ACC operates as a non-profit organization headquartered in Berlin, serving as a vital bridge between Arab filmmakers and the global film industry. Through a diverse array of activities including film markets, stands, networking sessions, and one-on-one meetings, ACC facilitates meaningful connections and fosters collaboration between industry stakeholders involved in co-production and international distribution.
The organization's commitment to promoting Arab cinema extends beyond physical events, with its Arab Cinema Magazine distributed at major international film festivals and markets. ACC's website serves as a hub of information, offering a newsletter subscription that provides digital copies of the magazine and updates on the organization's activities, grant application dates, festival notifications, and educational opportunities. Moreover, the recent launch of the Arab Cinema Directory in English enhances accessibility to comprehensive information on Arab cinema productions and filmmakers, furthering ACC's mission of fostering international connections and amplifying the voices of Arab filmmakers on the global stage.
As the curtains draw on another successful edition of the Berlin International Film Festival, ACC's presence and impact serve as a testament to the vibrant and evolving landscape of Arab cinema. With each initiative and collaboration, ACC continues to elevate the discourse surrounding Arab filmmaking, championing diversity, creativity, and innovation in storytelling. As the global film community looks towards the future, ACC stands poised to lead the charge in advancing the reach and influence of Arab cinema worldwide.
In conclusion, the Arab Cinema Center, a true flagship for promoting Arab cinema on the international stage, will continue to leave its mark on the global cinematic landscape, and its dynamic and influential presence will also be felt at the highly anticipated Cannes Film Festival, taking place from May 14th to May 25th, 2024, where it will contribute to enriching discussions and perspectives on Arab cinema and its position in the global cinematic panorama.
