Doha Film Institute unveils Qumra Masters for 2025 industry event
Recognised as a premier talent incubator in the Arab world, Qumra provides invaluable support to first and second-time filmmakers from the region and beyond. The initiative fosters industry connections, mentorship, and collaboration by linking emerging filmmakers with some of cinema's most esteemed visionaries.
The 2025 Qumra Masters include filmmakers Lav Diaz, Darius Khondji, Walter Salles, Anna Terrazas and Johnnie To. Through one-on-one mentorship and insightful discussions, these industry luminaries will guide participants in refining their artistic approach and enhancing their filmmaking skills.
Lav Diaz, a pioneer of slow cinema, is known for his contemplative storytelling and monochrome aesthetic, exploring themes of human endurance and socio-political struggles. Cinematographer Darius Khondji has earned acclaim for his mastery of light and composition, crafting visually striking narratives in films such as Amour and The Immigrant. Walter Salles, celebrated for The Motorcycle Diaries and I'm Still Here, brings his profound storytelling style, often centered on themes of memory, displacement and identity. Costume designer Anna Terrazas, known for her work in Roma and Spectre, seamlessly integrates cultural authenticity with artistic creativity. Johnnie To, an acclaimed genre-bending filmmaker behind Election and Exiled, is recognised for his gripping narratives exploring themes of fate, loyalty and morality.
Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, Chief Executive Officer of the Doha Film Institute, said: 'We are truly honoured to welcome some of the world's most celebrated creatives Lav Diaz, Darius Khondji, Walter Salles, Anna Terrazas and Johnnie To as Qumra Masters, joining the legacy of iconic storytellers who have supported us on our mission to empower important voices in film. Their artistry, innovation, and commitment to storytelling have left an indelible mark on world cinema. By sharing their knowledge and experience with our Qumra participants, they will inspire a new generation to refine their craft, and tell bold enduring stories that will shape the future of cinema.'
Elia Suleiman, Artistic Advisor at Doha Film Institute, added: 'Cinema is not just the stories we tell, but the silences in between—the spaces where meaning lingers. At Qumra, these silences resonate loudly, where emerging voices are amplified by the wisdom of the Qumra Masters. It is a place of transformation, where the future of film is not dictated, but discovered.'
Now in its 11th year, Qumra continues to solidify its role as a vital hub for independent filmmakers, offering an array of masterclasses, industry meetings and mentorship sessions. The event also features public Qumra Master Classes, providing access to expert insights and Qumra Screenings, showcasing regional and international films supported by the Doha Film Institute.
Further details about the programme and guest participants will be revealed soon.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Broadcast Pro
27 minutes ago
- Broadcast Pro
Cairo Intl Film Festival extends submission deadline for 46th edition
Filmmakers can submit their works via the festival's website now until August 15. The Cairo International Film Festival (CIFF) has extended submissions for its 46th edition, set to take place from November 12 to 21, 2025. Filmmakers are invited to submit their works through the festival's website, with the submission window now running until August 15. Festival President, actor Hussein Fahmy, said: 'We are pleased to announce the opening of submissions for the 46th edition of Cairo International Film Festival. We look forward to receiving fresh and diverse films that reflect unique cinematic perspectives and a wide range of cultures. We believe that cinema is a universal language, and the festival remains a vital platform for artistic exchange and creative dialogue between filmmakers and audiences.' Artistic Director Mohamed Tarek confirmed that preparations for the upcoming edition are already underway, and commented: 'We began working early to ensure a distinctive edition. Each year, submissions reveal exceptional talents, cinematic discoveries, and promising new voices from around the world.' The film festival holds a prestigious Category A accreditation and remains the only festival in the Arab world and Africa officially recognised by the International Federation of Film Producers Associations (FIAPF).
Broadcast Pro
15 hours ago
- Broadcast Pro
Co-Production Salon returns to MIPCOM Cannes for second year
Co-Production Salon will debut the 2025 MENA Co-Production Guidebook, host curated in-person and virtual networking sessions, and launch a year-round Virtual Networking Lounge to connect Arabic producers with global partners and showcase key industry insights and projects. Co-Production Salon, a platform dedicated to nurturing co-production partnerships and investment channels involving the Arab world, is set to return to MIPCOM Cannes for the second year in a row. Scheduled to run from October 13 to 16, 2025, at the Palais des Festivals, the initiative will feature an upgraded presence at the MIP Creative Hub, strategically positioned along the Cannes beachfront. The event underscores Co-Production Salon's growing role in linking Arabic content creators and investors with international distributors, broadcasters, and financiers to develop globally marketable content. Heba Korayem, Founder of Co-Production Salon, said: 'CoProduction Salon was created to bridge worlds — bringing Arabic production houses and investors together with international partners to create meaningful, marketable content. MIPCOM gives us the stage to make more of those connections happen.' A recent Omdia report predicts the region's VOD market will grow fivefold to reach $8.4bn by 2029, while Parrot Analytics data points to a dramatic rise in demand for Arabic content — up 400% in Saudi Arabia, 300% in Morocco, and 200% in Iraq since 2020. Since its inception, Co-Production Salon has facilitated over $12m in partnership deals. For 2025, the platform is introducing several new initiatives aimed at deepening engagement and insight. These include the launch of the MENA Co-Production Guidebook (2025 Edition), offering in-depth analysis of market trends and investment opportunities, and a Networking Power Hour, designed to foster real-time, curated meetings between Arabic and international stakeholders. Additionally, a Virtual Networking Lounge will provide continuous access to industry data, professional connections, and project highlights throughout the year. The initiative invites participation from a wide array of industry players, from production companies and distributors to investors, broadcasters, OTT platforms, and advertising agencies, all seeking to tap into one of the fastest-growing, youth-driven content markets in the world. Participants will gain access to premium projects, vetted partnerships, and curated networking opportunities. The Virtual Lounge already features over 200 verified profiles from top-tier MENA content entities, including Saudi Broadcast Authority, Thamaniya, Sadaf Media Production, Rise Studios, Cedars Art and Pixitoon. The physical lounge at MIPCOM will serve as a key venue for face-to-face engagement with these and other leading industry names. With its enhanced presence and expanded programming, Co-Production Salon is positioning itself as a central force in the internationalisation of Arabic content. Visitors can connect with the team at PALAIS C12 HUB 6, explore ongoing projects, or join high-level networking events at MIPCOM. 'Our goal is to make those partnerships not just possible but profitable,' added Heba Korayem.
Sharjah 24
20 hours ago
- Sharjah 24
New issue of Sharjah Cultural highlights global creativity
ditorial team contributions Managing Editor Nawaf Younes contributed an essay titled 'Music… A Culture and Universal Language', describing music as one of the most enduring human artistic expressions across and as a powerful —from Assyrian and Egyptian to Greek and Chinese—civilisationsinfluence on identity, personality, and culture. Music, he argues, continues to thrive today as a universal language understood by all. Literature, history and cultural profiles Jabal, a leading Arab poet, as examined -This issue explores the life and poetry of Badawi alby Dr Akram Qanbas. Dr Mohamed Ahmed Anab delves into the legacy of Swiss orientalist Max van Berchem, who dedicated his life to the study of Islamic inscriptions and calligraphy. Amal Kamel writes about Zgharta, a Lebanese town surrounded by rivers and olive trees, while Shehab Al Kaabi reflects on the cultural heritage of Basra, Iraq's vibrant cultural capital. Focus on Arab literary voices In the Literature and Writers section, Abdul Alim Haris covers the Sharjah Cultural Honouring Forum, which celebrated a group of distinguished Mauritanian authors. Jawad Amer writes about Moroccan historian, poet, and critic Abdullah Kannoun and his literary contributions, while Nour Suleiman Ahmed analyses the novelistic style of Ibrahim Abdel Meguid and his talent for evoking place and character. I'tidal Othman discusses how Arab s Indian writer novels address the transformation of identity, and Adel El Batousi highlightone of the prominent voices in the —Bhanu Mushtaq's win of the International Booker PrizeKannada language. Contemporary voices and literary legacy Ahmed Fadl Shabloul profiles poet Aziz Andraos, influenced by the Mahjar school and noted for innovation in form and content. Nabil Suleiman recounts how libraries shaped his literary world over seventy years, introducing him to major Arab and international writers. Hassan M. Youssef interviews author Tayseer Khalaf, who links creativity with societal change. Noura Ibrahim Hardan covers the poetic journey of Iraqi poet Mowafaq Mohammed Abu Khumra, while Sawsan Mohamed Kamel explores the intellectual and civilisational thought of Algerian thinker Malek Bennabi. Ghassan Kamel Wanos writes on the creative spaces and characters shaped by Haydar Haydar, with a focus on his blending of literary genres. Intissar Abbas sheds light on the poetry of Mohammed Lafi and his reflections on identity, homeland, and exile. Global literary reflections Dr Qassem Koufji analyses the literary depth of Haruki Murakami's writing, especially in its exploration of identity, isolation, and human nature. Dr Majd Haidar discusses Empire of the Sun by J.G. Ballard, inspired by the author's autobiography. Ziad Al Rayes reflects on themes of sorrow and confession in Your Book in My Right Hand by Jordanian writer Yasser Qubailat. Youssef Ali covers a panel discussion hosted by the Arab Cultural Club in Sharjah on Aisha Sultan's short story collection Cold Fear. Finally, Nasreen Antonius revisits For Bread Alone by Moroccan writer Mohamed Choukri, who offered a raw testimony to a childhood shaped by deprivation, learning life's harsh lessons on the streets before even learning to read. Art, strings and brushstrokes In the Art, Strings and Brushstrokes section, Mohab Labib explores the experience of Syrian Bashir Obeid -abstract artist Mahmoud Hammad, a pioneer of the movement in Syria. AlHadi Sassi, who seeks to balance creativity with artistic -interviews visual artist Mohamed AlGizawy pays tribute to the renowned Samia Ayoub, a major figure in -commitment. Khalil Elthe history of Arab theatre, while Hisham Azkyd highlights the creative work of Moroccan Safadi, -s poet Bayane AlSaghir. Randa Halloum meet-Maskini Al-playwright and director Alwho writes for both adults and children, believing theatre has a profound impact on young Din Aita honours the legacy of Egyptian music legend Mohamed -minds. Ahmed Saad ElFawzi, celebrated for his innovation and versatility. Dr Lama Tayara reviews the film Thank You for Dreaming with Me, emphasising the director's skill in bringing reality to life on screen. Osama Asal commemorates the 110th anniversary of the birth and 29th anniversary of the passing of Salah Abou Seif, one of Egypt's cinema greats. Under the spotlight: new books and readings The Under the Spotlight section presents a variety of new books and critical readings. These include The History and Culture of the Tajiks by Nawal Amer, Descriptive and Analytical Methodology by Amani Ibrahim Yassin, and Ancient Arabic Prose Texts from Anxious Agha. Thuraya Abdel Badi' Al Arab reviews He Who Lacks Love... Gives -Literature by Abrar AlIt, a young adult novel by Rania Hussein Amin. Other works featured are The Arabs in s by Orientalist Painting by Iman Mohamed Ahmed and The Hidden Ones in My WordMaamari, with reviews from Souad Said Noah. Najlaa Mamoun contributes a -Suleiman Alstudy on the origins and evolution of the Moroccan short story. Cultural essays and articles This issue also includes a rich collection of articles and essays covering a broad range of cultural topics. Among these are discussions on poetic ambition by Raad Aman, reflections on the city of Esna's wisdom and history by Saeed Yassin, and the digital revolution's impact on artistic creativity by Mudhafar Ismail. Fadia Issa Qaraajeh examines Waciny Laredj's Za'al explores -novelistic approach as close to documentary style, while Shimaza Fawaz Alk Saqour writes on the narrative the relationship between algorithms and literary work. MaliTayyib -forest, Mustafa Abdullah reviews the turbulent life of poet Hanoun Majid, and AlAdeeb considers the importance of children's libraries. Nabil Ahmed Safiya investigates the influence of culture and criticism on Arab fiction, and Paul Chaoul critiques artificial intelligence as a failed poet. Abdulrazzaq Shahroor delves into classical chaste love poetry, Suhaimi's love for place and memory. Abdelhakim -and Mufid Khansa reflects on Mohsen AlArnaout -Zubaidi profiles scholar and critic Ahmad Youssef Ali, while Mohamed Al-AlHaisha shares -examines Arabic literature in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Mahmoud Salama Alstories about human emotions, and Dr Hani Mohamed celebrates the cultural contributions Maghribi analyses the shaded rooftops between Barak and -Alayli. Najwa Al-of Abdullah AlPicasso, while Mohamed Najib Qaddoura recalls the creative memories of Adeeb Qaddoura. Mohamed Hammouda reveals the theatrical side of Naguib Mahfouz, and Magdy Mahfouz highlights the realisation of the Sharjah Performing Arts Academy dream. Prince Kamal Faraj discusses voice performance as an art form, Ali Dawla reviews children's films and Safi's novel Jameel Nadound as a -programmes, and Dr Mustafa Ghunaim praises Anne Alsymphony of hope. Finally, Nadia Omar takes readers on an exciting journey through Arabic literary history, and Rose Makhlouf explores the subtle harmony of silk. Short stories, poetry and heritage The issue also dedicates space to a selection of short stories, poetry, translations, and heritage pieces by prominent Arab writers. Featured works include The Artist's Room by Batros's exploration of commodifying art amid -Suad Zaher, a writer and critic, and Dr Atef AlSayed Abdel Aal, -the pressures of reality. Short stories such as New Events by Mohamed ElDaem, and One Day It Happened by Abdelhamid -An Innocent Trick by Asmaa Nour Alof Light, by Rawi are included, alongside a translated poem, The Long Ray -Mohamed AlAsma'i by Abdulrazzaq Ismail, -Hamada Abdel Latif. The heritage series features Stories of AlSha'ar's Literary Notes explore the -A'raj. Fawaz Al-Jishi reflects on poet Al-while Wael Albeauty of language and linguistics, and Waleed Ramadan sheds light on the life and work of French orientalist Charles Pellat, who was devoted to the Arabic language.
