Latest news with #CinemaAkil
What's On
03-06-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
Here's everything you can watch at Cinema Akil this June
Your box office watch at Cinema Akil this June… June is here, and with a new timetable of releases at Cinema Akil. Everyone's favourite independent arthouse cinema and the go-to spot for alternative watching is bringing a curation that's hot like the summer we're in right now – big, bold and bizarre films that will make you feel more deeply than you ever have, from heady trips to moody flicks and a mind-bending, mind-boggling sci-fi flick. With a side of heartache, of course. The program… Mickey 17 (May 16 – June 30) by Academy Award-winning Bong Joon Ho , follows a disposable employee sent on a human expedition to colonize the ice world Niflheim. After one iteration perishes, his body is regenerated with most of his memories intact, leading to a dangerous and complex journey of survival and discovery. (May 16 – June 30) by Academy Award-winning Bong Joon Ho follows a disposable employee sent on a human expedition to colonize the ice world Niflheim. After one iteration perishes, his body is regenerated with most of his memories intact, leading to a dangerous and complex journey of survival and discovery. Marcello Mio (June 01 – June 27) by Christophe HONORÉ follows Chiara, an actress who begins to embody her father, Marcello Mastroianni, in a playful and moving exploration of identity, memory, and legacy. (June 01 – June 27) by Christophe HONORÉ follows Chiara, an actress who begins to embody her father, Marcello Mastroianni, in a playful and moving exploration of identity, memory, and legacy. I am Still Here (May 30 – June 29) directed by Walter Salles, follows a mother who is forced to reinvent herself when her family's life is torn apart by an act of arbitrary violence amid the tightening grip of Brazil's military dictatorship in 1971. From Reel Palestine… To A Land Unknown (May 15 – June 30)which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival at the Director's Fortnight, tells the powerful story of two young men willing to risk everything for a brighter future. Trapped in the struggles of Athens, they hatch a dangerous plan to escape their grim reality, setting the stage for a tense journey of survival and hope. For the full schedule, visit @cinemaakil Images: Supplied > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
Khaleej Times
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Top things to do in Dubai from May 2–5: From exploring Arab cinema to 'Star Wars' cosplay
The weekend vibe is in full swing, and Dubai is buzzing with all the right energy, as always. So, whether you're in the mood for tacos, moonlit dips, or catching a soulful Sudanese performance on opening night at Cinema Akil, here are our top picks to make your plans anything but ordinary. Hop aboard the Mangalore Express From May 1–15, Kovalam Restaurant is transforming into the Mangalore Express — a coastal culinary journey packed with spice and soul. From Kundapura curries to Kudla beverages, it's a delicious ode to the Konkan coast. So, sip on some kokum-infused concoctions, dig into jackfruit cutlets, and don't forget to save room for the iconic 'Gadbad' dessert (yes, it's as fun as it sounds). Find out more on: @ Cinco de Mayo Grab your sombreros, Dubai, because Rodeo Drive is throwing its biggest Cinco de Mayo bash yet on May 5, and it's ten years in the making! Expect taco trolleys, glow face painting, and Dh19 taco + beverage combos (yes, really). With live Mexican beats, zingy beverages, and a menu that covers it all, this fiesta is bringing all the flavour and flair. Find out more on: @rodeodrivedubai 'Doughnut' miss this London's cult-fave bakery Bread Ahead has officially touched down in City Centre Mirdif, and your sweet tooth is about to thank you. Famed for its ooey-gooey Pistachio and Vanilla doughnuts, this third UAE outpost also dishes out artisanal pastries, sourdough pizzas, and smooth specialty coffee — basically, carb heaven. Go for the doughnuts, stay for everything else. For more info, visit A Turkish twist Wind down your weekend the Turkish way at Chillingir Pazar Rakısı — a Sunday night affair of meze, and mellow throwback vibes. Tuck into classic bites like haydari, ezme, and marinated seafood alongside nostalgic '80s–'90s Turkish tunes, warm lighting, and that unmistakable Mediterranean charm. For bookings, call: +971 4 220 4758 or visit Lights, camera, culture Volume 4 of Arab Cinema Week is rolling in on May 2 — and if you love soulful stories, indie vibes and a generous dose of popcorn, this one's for you. Hosted at Cinema Akil, the fest is a deep dive into Arab storytelling at its finest. So, grab your cinephile crew, and let the reels roll. For more details, visit: @cinemaakil or Calling all superfans Get ready for a weekend of capes, comics, and cosmic vibes! COMICAVE is going all out on May 3–4 with a pop culture extravaganza at Dubai Outlet Mall. Think free comic book giveaways, Star Wars cosplay galore, gaming tournaments, and a chance to meet international comic artists — all under one dome. The event is free to enter, from 12pm-9pm. More info on: @comicave Take the plunge Rooftop pool, skyline views and Riviera vibes? Yes, please. Moonlit Dips at St. Trop is your new weekend evening escape. For Dh300 (with Dh200 back in food and drink credit), you can float under the stars, sip something cool, and soak in Burj Khalifa views from the 18th floor of the Waldorf Astoria DIFC. Launching May 2, every Fri–Sun from sunset till 10pm. For bookings, call: 04 515 9999 Get started on your fitness resolutions Escape the heat and feel the burn (in a good way) with Barre Effect's BE Summer Ready package: 20 classes in 30 days for Dh1,400. Expect 50-minute workouts blending ballet, Pilates, and yoga, paired with upbeat playlists and sculpting props (think wearable weights, resistance bands and YBells). Ideal for all fitness levels, classes are low-impact, high-results. Bonus: luxe amenities like Dyson tools and RAW coffee make post-sweat refresh a breeze. It's fitness that looks—and feels—fabulous. Dh130 (one class); Dh1,400 (20 classes) –available until July 31. To book, go to Savour spring at Armani/Ristorante Welcome the season in style at Armani/Ristorante, the Michelin-starred gem inside Dubai's Burj Khalifa. This spring, executive chef Giovanni Papi unveils a vibrant new à la carte menu, spotlighting fresh flavours and elegant Italian flair. Think Wagyu-filled ravioli, sea urchin linguine, citrus-infused desserts, and luxurious mains like wild sea bass and foie gras-topped tenderloin. It's a symphony of spring on every plate — served in one of the city's most iconic settings. Celebrate with PizzaExpress PizzaExpress is celebrating 60 years of pizza perfection with a feast of flavour-packed offers across the UAE. Dine in with the '60 for 60' deal—unlimited pizza and Dough Balls for 60 minutes at just Dh60—or savour the new Icons Set Menu, featuring reimagined fan-favourites like the burrata-topped Queen Margherita, La Reine, Beef Lasagne, and indulgent desserts like Golden Caramel Dough Balls. Prefer to party at home? Enjoy delivery-exclusive combos like the Birthday Meal for One or Pizza Pair, each just Dh60. With website-only discounts and surprise treats on qualifying orders, it's a celebration that delivers—literally. Sonny Fodera live On 3 May 2025, internationally acclaimed DJ and producer Sonny Fodera will headline Bohemia Presents at FIVE Palm Jumeirah, bringing his signature deep house and tech beats to Dubai's premier beach party venue. Known for chart-topping tracks like "Somedays," "Asking," and "You and I," Sonny will be joined by SARAHREY and Fabrice for an electrifying night of music set against the backdrop of the Dubai Marina skyline. The event kicks off at 5pm at Bohemia Beach Club, with tickets priced at Dh250 for gents (includes 3 drinks), Dh150 for ladies (includes 2 drinks), and VIP packages starting at Dh3000. Expect high-energy sets, stunning seaside views, and a top-tier party atmosphere.
What's On
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
Box office watch: Everything on at Cinema Akil this May
Prepare to have your mind blown at Cinema Akil this May… May is the month of madness, and this line-up at Cinema Akil is sure to stay with you long after the credits have rolled. Everyone's favourite independent arthouse cinema and the go-to spot for alternative watching is bringing a curation that's hot like the summer we're in right now – big, bold and bizarre films, from intense dramas to nail-biting thrillers and a mind-bending, mind-boggling sci-fi flick. Also, two films from the recent Reel Palestine collection are back to the big screen, by popular demand. Revisit the masterpieces that were To a Land Unknown and Thank You for Banking With Us . The program… Monsieur Aznavour (May 13 – May 14) brings to life the extraordinary rise of Charles Aznavour, one of France's most beloved singers and actors. Directed by Mehdi Idir and Grand Corps Malade, the film follows his journey from struggling artist to international icon, set against the backdrop of post-war France. (May 13 – May 14) brings to life the extraordinary rise of Charles Aznavour, one of France's most beloved singers and actors. Directed by Mehdi Idir and Grand Corps Malade, the film follows his journey from struggling artist to international icon, set against the backdrop of post-war France. Mickey 17 (May 16 – June 30) by Academy Award-winning Bong Joon Ho , follows a disposable employee sent on a human expedition to colonize the ice world Niflheim. After one iteration perishes, his body is regenerated with most of his memories intact, leading to a dangerous and complex journey of survival and discovery. (May 16 – June 30) by Academy Award-winning Bong Joon Ho follows a disposable employee sent on a human expedition to colonize the ice world Niflheim. After one iteration perishes, his body is regenerated with most of his memories intact, leading to a dangerous and complex journey of survival and discovery. I am Still Here (May 30 – June 29) directed by Walter Salles, follows a mother who is forced to reinvent herself when her family's life is torn apart by an act of arbitrary violence amid the tightening grip of Brazil's military dictatorship in 1971. From Reel Palestine… Thank You For Banking With Us (May 13 – May 15) is a gripping drama by Laila Abbas, making its return to Cinema Akil after its run at Reel Palestine. The film explores themes of family, inheritance, and resistance, following two sisters who must put aside their differences to fight against Sharia law, which grants their brother double their rightful share of the inheritance. (May 13 – May 15) is a gripping drama by Laila Abbas, making its return to after its run at Reel Palestine. The film explores themes of family, inheritance, and resistance, following two sisters who must put aside their differences to fight against Sharia law, which grants their brother double their rightful share of the inheritance. To A Land Unknown (May 15 – June 30)which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival at the Director's Fortnight, tells the powerful story of two young men willing to risk everything for a brighter future. Trapped in the struggles of Athens, they hatch a dangerous plan to escape their grim reality, setting the stage for a tense journey of survival and hope. For the full schedule, visit @cinemaakil Images: Supplied > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
Broadcast Pro
02-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Broadcast Pro
Cinema Akil to screen Somali film ‘The Village Next to Paradise'
'The Village Next to Paradise', a Cannes-selected poetic drama by Mo Harawe, centred on a family in a Somali village navigating life between hardship and hope. As part of Arab Cinema Week Volume 4, Cinema Akil will host special screenings of The Village Next to Paradise on May 4 and May 9, with director Mo Harawe in attendance. Presented by Fujifilm in collaboration with Alserkal Avenue and supported by Soul Communications, the event highlights a landmark in Somali cinema. Directed and written by Mo Harawe in his feature debut, The Village Next to Paradise transports viewers to the serene backdrop of a Somali village, where a family recently brought back together must navigate the fragile balance between personal aspirations and societal pressures. The film offers an intimate portrayal of life in the village, capturing the everyday struggles and dreams of its residents. The cast includes Ahmed Ali Farah, Ahmed Mahmoud Suleiman and Anab Ahmed Ibrahim. Joana Scrinzi handled the film's editing, while Noor Abdulkadir served as production designer. Egyptian cinematographer Mostafa El Kashef made his feature debut on the film, earning the Best Cinematography award at the Diagonale Austrian Film Festival. The film also won Best Feature Film at the same festival. The Village Next to Paradise holds the distinction of being the first Somali film to screen at the Cannes Film Festival. El Kashef, who gained acclaim for his work on the project, will return to Cannes this May with his latest film, Aisha Can't Fly. International sales are handled by Totem Films, with Jour2Fête managing French distribution and MAD Distribution covering the MENA region.
The National
02-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
Ten films to watch at Cinema Akil's Arab Film Week in Dubai
Arab Film Week returns to Cinema Akil for the fourth year from May 2 to 11. This year, the programme celebrates people pursuing their dreams – whether for freedom, home, family, or self-discovery. The curated films explore themes of family, war, personal journeys and women's experiences. Here are the 10 films screening at Arab Film Week 2025. Showing: May 2 at 7pm, May 7 at 9.30pm Emirati filmmaker Nayla Al Khaja directs Three, a horror film about a demonic possession and the western man who has to step in to stop the evil. The film's stars include Jefferson Hall, who also appeared in House of the Dragon and Oppenheimer, and Saud Alzarooni. Showing: May 7 at 7pm, May 10 at 10pm Jordanian filmmaker Rand Beiruty directs this documentary about a group of Arab, Kurdish and Roma teenage girls who come of age in a German provincial town. Confronting hidden discrimination and family expectations, they express their struggles and boldest dreams on camera. The director followed the girls for four years, filming them as their relationships and friendships grew. Beiruty also traces their linguistic and cognitive growth as each girl strives to find purpose and belonging in her new community. Showing: May 4 at 4.30pm, May 6 at 7pm, May 9 at 10.15pm Shajane, Maha, Muzamil and Khattab are Sudanese young people who engage with politics and express themselves creatively. Filmmaker Hind Meddeb follows them in this documentary as they exemplify their generation's fight for freedom using their art. Facing a corrupt army responsible for war crimes in Darfur, Kordofan and Blue Nile, they are sustained by a dream – fuelled by imagination and the power of poetic expression – that enabled them to topple the former regime. Showing: May 2 at 9.15pm, May 8 at 7pm Anas Zawahri's film is a moving look at life in Homs, Syria, caught between the past, present and future. It shows a city and its people trying to return to normal after deep loss and destruction. The film is a powerful reminder of the pain of war and the strength people find to keep going. Showing: May 4 at 9.30pm, May 5 at 9.30pm, May 10 at 4.30pm Bassam Mortada was just five when he first visited his father, Mahmoud, in the infamous Abo Zaabal prison in Egypt. Shaken by the police raid in which his father was captured, he became filled with resentment towards the authorities. In this documentary, Mortada captures his journey to reconnect with his parents and uncover a path towards historical truth, emotional understanding and healing, as he pieces together how their political activism impacted their family. Showing: May 3 at 4.30pm, May 6 at 8.45pm, May 11 at 7pm In Mehdi Barsaoui's Aicha, Aya, a woman in her late twenties living with her parents in southern Tunisia, feels stuck in a life with no future. After surviving a car accident that kills everyone else on board, she sees an opportunity to start over. Escaping to the capital city under a new identity, her fresh start is quickly threatened when she becomes the key witness to a police mistake. Showing: May 5 at 7pm, May 10 at 7pm At 40, Saify Muhammed is a failed scammer who owes money to a lot of people, even to his ex-wife. It's the year 2000, and he owns a rundown music shop that sells cassette tapes, including banned Islamic sermons he wrongly believes will make him rich. Wael Abu Mansour directs this Saudi comedy about blackmail and the business of religion. Showing: May 3 at 9.30pm, May 11 at 4.30pm Kurdwin Ayub directs Mond, a film about a former martial artist who accepts what seems like a dream job – training three wealthy sisters in Jordan – but things quickly turn sour because the young women are constantly watched and have no real interest in learning the sport. Showing: May 3 at 7pm, May 8 at 9.15pm, May 11 at 10pm Lebanese comedy-drama Arze, directed by Mira Shaib, is about a single mother who is determined to buy her son a scooter so he can help her deliver the pies she bakes. To make it happen, she steals and pawns her sister's bracelet for a down payment. But when the scooter gets stolen, the mother takes charge, pulling her unwilling son across Beirut to track it down. Showing: May 4 at 6.45pm, May 9 at 7pm Mo Harawe's The Village Next to Paradise follows a newly blended family as they navigate the ups and downs of modern life, balancing personal dreams with everyday struggles. US drones constantly fly above them in their rural Somali village as they struggle to survive amid poverty. Shot entirely in Somalia, the film boasts a cast of first-time actors.
