Latest news with #FatmaHassanAlremaihi
Mid East Info
18 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Mid East Info
MIRAMAX ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH DOHA FILM INSTITUTE TO ELEVATE ARABIC-LANGUAGE STORYTELLING - Middle East Business News and Information
The Program Will Support DFI's Series Program and Original Content Development in the Region DOHA, QATAR – August 2025 – Miramax, the award-winning global film and television studio owned by beIN MEDIA GROUP (beIN) and Paramount Global, announced today the DFI x Miramax Writer's Program, a major partnership with Doha Film Institute (DFI) aimed at supporting the development of premium, local Arabic-language content across the Middle East and North Africa. The program will provide training, mentorship, and production and distribution resources for both emerging and established Arab writers, offering critical support for their projects, contributing to the expansion of the region's series content output, and strengthening Qatar's position as a leading media hub in the Middle East. The DFI x Miramax Writer's Program will involve the selection of up to five local and regional projects to develop each year. The Writer's Program will tie into DFI's existing Series Programs, with the goal of extending the reach and impact of these initiatives. The collaboration between Miramax, renowned for its film & television productions, and DFI, the leading film institute in the Middle East, addresses a key gap in the region's media industry by offering not only development support but also direct access to Miramax's vast distribution and sales network to reach audiences worldwide. 'At Miramax, we believe great storytelling knows no borders,' said CEO, Jonathan Glickman. 'This partnership with DFI is a powerful step toward amplifying emerging Arabic-language voices and sharing their stories with audiences worldwide.' Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, CEO of DFI said, 'At Doha Film Institute, we believe in the transformative power of storytelling to unite, inspire, and celebrate cultural identity. Our partnership with Miramax marks an exciting new chapter in championing original Arabic-language content that reflects the depth and diversity of our region. By creating compelling stories in our own voice, we not only preserve our heritage but also bring communities closer together through the universal language of cinema.' Miramax has had a standout year across both film and television, with highlights including Academy Award®-nominated The Holdovers; The Beekeeper (which grossed over $160 million worldwide); indie-hit Strange Darling ; Golden Globe-nominated series The Gentlemen which launched in March 2024 ranking #1 for three weeks on Netflix and was renewed for a second season; and the fourth installment of the Bridget Jones franchise – Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy , which premiered February 14, 2025. Upcoming Miramax projects include: Roofman , starring Channing Tatum, Kirsten Dunst and Peter Dinklage, set to premiere October 10, 2025, with Paramount Pictures distributing domestically and in the UK; the next installment in the Scary Movie franchise, set to premiere Summer 2026, distributed globally by Paramount Pictures, with Marlon, Shawn, and Keenen Ivory Wayans writing and producing; Colman Domingo's directorial debut Scandalous , starring Sydney Sweeney and David Jonsson; and The Faculty remake, being written by breakout talent Drew Hancock. About MIRAMAX: A beIN MEDIA GROUP and Paramount company headquartered in Los Angeles, MIRAMAX is a global film and television studio best known for its award-winning, original films. Led by Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Glickman, MIRAMAX is one of the most active and robust independent film and television studios. Recent and upcoming film projects include the fourth installment of the Bridget Jones franchise, Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy (which grossed $130 million internationally); gearing up to make the sequel to the hit film The Beekeeper (which grossed more than $160 million worldwide), with Jason Statham returning and Timo Tjahjanto directing; Roofman , starring Channing Tatum, Kirsten Dunst and Peter Dinklage, set to premiere October 10 , 2025; 4 Kids Walk into a Bank starring Liam Neeson and directed by Frankie Shaw; Colman Domingo's directorial debut Scandalous , starring Sydney Sweeney and David Jonsson; The Faculty remake, being written by breakout talent Drew Hancock; and the next installment in the Scary Movie franchise, set to premiere Summer 2026, distributed globally by Paramount Pictures, with Marlon, Shawn, and Keenen Ivory Wayans writing and producing. The studio's growing slate of global television content includes the series adaptation of Guy Ritchie's feature film for MIRAMAX, The Gentlemen , which spent three weeks as Netflix's top-performing English-language show globally and is currently in production for season two. Projects in development include the TV adaptation of Cop Land, with the film's director James Mangold attached; Shall We Dance , with Jennifer Lopez attached to produce; The Key Man , a limited series based on the acclaimed book about disgraced financier Arif Naqvi; and an adaptation of the 2024 Oscar-winning film The Holdovers , with Alexander Payne involved. MIRAMAX is also developing series based on the critically acclaimed and commercially successful films Gangs of New York , Chocolat, Prêt-à-Porter and The English Patient . The studio also secured television rights to the blockbuster Halloween franchise, with additional projects in development internationally. Miramax films have received 278 Academy Award® nominations and 68 Oscars®, including four Best Picture awards. About Doha Film Institute: Doha Film Institute is an independent, not-for-profit cultural organisation. It supports the growth of the local film community through cultivating film appreciation, enhancing industry knowledge and contributing to the development of sustainable creative industries in Qatar. The Institute's platforms include funding and production of local, regional and international films; skills-sharing and mentorship programmes; film screenings; and specialised film events. With culture, community, learning and entertainment at its foundation, the Institute is committed to supporting Qatar's 2030 vision for the development of a knowledge-based economy.
Broadcast Pro
a day ago
- Business
- Broadcast Pro
Miramax and DFI launch writer's programme to boost Arabic-language content
The programme will support DFI's series programme and original content development in the region. Miramax, the global film and television studio owned by beIN Media Group and Paramount Global, has announced a partnership with the Doha Film Institute (DFI) to launch the DFI x Miramax Writer's Programme, an initiative designed to nurture Arabic-language storytelling and expand the Middle East and North Africa's presence in global series content. The programme will provide training, mentorship and access to production and distribution resources for both emerging and established Arab writers. Each year, up to five projects from local and regional creators will be selected for development, tying into DFI's existing Series Programmes. Beyond development support, participants will benefit from Miramax's extensive international distribution and sales network, ensuring Arab voices reach audiences worldwide. Speaking about the programme, Jonathan Glickman, CEO of Miramax, said: 'At Miramax, we believe great storytelling knows no borders. This partnership with DFI is a powerful step toward amplifying emerging Arabic-language voices and sharing their stories with audiences worldwide.' Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, CEO of DFI, added: 'At Doha Film Institute, we believe in the transformative power of storytelling to unite, inspire, and celebrate cultural identity. Our partnership with Miramax marks an exciting new chapter in championing original Arabic-language content that reflects the depth and diversity of our region. By creating compelling stories in our own voice, we not only preserve our heritage but also bring communities closer together through the universal language of cinema.' The Writer's Programme represents a strategic step in strengthening Qatar's role as a leading media hub, addressing a long-standing gap in the region's creative ecosystem by pairing world-class mentorship with international market access. The announcement comes during a year of notable successes for Miramax across both film and television. The studio's recent highlights include the Academy Award-nominated The Holdovers, action hit The Beekeeper which grossed over $160m worldwide, and indie success Strange Darling. On television, Miramax's Golden Globe-nominated series The Gentlemen debuted in March 2024 as Netflix's top-ranked show for three weeks and has already been renewed for a second season.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Politics
- Yahoo
KINSELLA: Is Qatar steering TIFF's ship?
Unlike Hamas, which still maintains an office in Qatar, the Doha Film Institute (DFI) operates out of a post office box in the oil-rich Middle Eastern country. But the institute — which proclaims that it is 'independent' and merely interested in promoting film and culture — wields a lot of clout. With the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), in particular. DFI came into existence in 2010. It is led by Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, a telegenic Qatari woman. Alremaihi has not hidden her disdain for Israel, in her public remarks or in the films she funds. Just days after Hamas murdered, raped and wounded thousands of Israelis on Oct. 7, 2023, for example, Alremaihi spoke at a conference in Doha promoting 'voices from Palestine.' The DFI CEO called for 'resistance,' quote unquote, presumably against Israel. She called for a minute of silence for Palestinian 'martyrs,' and, according to at least one news report, attacked 'ongoing Israeli aggression' and 'the Israeli war machine.' Said the report, in The Peninsula: 'Alremaihi pointed out (Israel's) violations of international and ethical laws, as well as humanitarian standards and values, by the Israeli colonial occupation. She highlighted the importance of the 'Free Palestine' slogan, noting that it represents a defence of not only Palestine and its people but also our universal principles of freedom and humanity. 'Today, when millions of people all over the world say 'Free Palestine,' it's not a slogan to defend Palestine and Palestinians only. It's a chant defending our own freedom, humanity and values.' Alremaihi called for 'resistance … through various means,' said The Peninsula's reporter. Watching the circus that was the Toronto International Film Festival this past week, one can be forgiven for wondering: does that 'resistance' extend to TIFF? How much influence does Qatar exercise over the celebrated Canadian film festival? Both are fair questions, particularly after TIFF refused to screen The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue, a Canadian film that showcased one Israeli's family's experiences on Oct. 7. Among other things, TIFF CEO Cameron Bailey had told the film's makers their documentary would be barred from TIFF because they did not obtain 'legal clearance of all footage' — essentially, from Hamas, a terror group. A massive controversy ensued, with Bailey and TIFF being pilloried on front pages around the globe. On Thursday afternoon, Bailey and TIFF completely reversed their idiotic decision. Sources say 'heads will roll' soon at the organization, this newspaper has been told. TIFF reverses decision, will show Oct. 7 massacre film EDITORIAL: Moral cowardice at Toronto film festival Bailey is not an antisemite, those same sources say. So, what persuaded TIFF to bar the film? Was it Qatar? It, too, is a fair question, because the relationship between TIFF and the Doha Film Institute has grown exponentially since 2019. Qatar has funded many antisemitic and anti-Israel boycott campaigns in recent years — along with its documented support for Hamas and its terrorism. Meanwhile, DFI — Qatar's official film institute — has produced multiple films that have been screened at TIFF. In 2019 alone, no less than 12 Qatari-funded films were shown at TIFF. One was a profile of a leader of the Abu Nidal group, which terrorized the West and Israel in the late Eighties, killing over 1600 people in 20 countries. In that film, shown at TIFF, members of Abu Nidal are called 'honest.' Interestingly, TIFF is a partner with the Toronto Palestine Film Festival. One of the films to be shown at the TIFF Lightbox in 2025 includes one about someone 'imprisoned by the Israeli occupation' — and notes that 'the ongoing oppression and killing of Palestinian people isn't new.' So, again: how much funding has TIFF received from Qatar? Have its executives or staff received any travel or other benefits? What influence, if any, has DFI or Qatar exercised over TIFF since 2019? Written questions about all that were sent to TIFF. They have yet to respond. For now, TIFF remains in the public relations burn unit. Its missteps will be studied by PR students for years to come — as an example of what not to do. Allegations of antisemitism will hang over TIFF for some time to come. But so, too, this question: How much control does Qatar exercise over Canada's premier film festival? RECOMMENDED VIDEO
Qatar Tribune
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Qatar Tribune
Doha Film Institute marks record participation at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival with 12 supported films
Tribune News Network Doha Doha Film Institute (DFI) continues to cement its place as a driving force in global cinema, with a record 12 supported films selected for the 82nd Venice International Film Festival (August 27 – September 9, 2025). Representing bold, diverse, and urgent storytelling from the Arab world and beyond, the line-up spans the festival's most competitive and influential sections—including the Official Selection, Settimana della Critica (Critics' Week), Giornate degli Autori (Venice Days), Final Cut in Venice, and the Venice Production Bridge. The strong presence highlights DFI's unwavering commitment to championing authentic and powerful narratives that transcend borders, and to supporting independent filmmakers whose stories may otherwise go untold. From emerging voices to acclaimed auteurs, the selected films reflect the depth, diversity, and global relevance of DFI's growing portfolio. Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, chief executive officer of Doha Film Institute, said, 'This landmark presence of 12 DFI-supported films at Venice is a powerful testament to our mission of elevating compelling, courageous storytelling from voices that are too often unheard. These films carry the weight of truth, resilience, and vision—and they speak across borders, cultures, and perspectives. What makes this year's selection even more special is the inclusion of homegrown talent from Qatar, a proud reflection of the creative excellence emerging from our own community. Our role is not just to support filmmakers, but to champion stories that challenge, inspire, and ultimately expand the global cinematic conversation. This milestone reaffirms DFI's impact in shaping a more balanced and representative film landscape.' Official selection: In Competition for the Golden Lion is the World Premiere of The Voice of Hind Rajab (Tunisia/France) by award-winning filmmaker Kaouther Ben Hania, that offers a searing portrayal of five-year-old Hind Rajab, killed by Israeli forces alongside her family. Screening 'Out of Competition' in the Non-Fiction category is My Father and Qaddafi (Libya/USA/Qatar) by Jihan K, is a deeply personal chronicling the filmmaker's journey to uncover the truth behind her father's disappearance during the Qaddafi regime. Giornate degli Autori (Venice Days): Memory (Russia/France/Netherlands/Qatar) by Vladlena Sandu is a cinematic reckoning with the traumas of the Chechen war, as the filmmaker reclaims her past through art. A Sad and Beautiful World (Lebanon/USA/Germany/KSA/Qatar) by Cyril Aris is a decades-spanning love story set against Beirut's shifting landscape of tragedy and resilience. Do You Love Me (Lebanon/France/Qatar) by Lana Daher, explores Lebanese identity through seven decades of pop culture, politics, and collective memory. Settimana della Critica (Critics' Week): Cotton Queen (Sudan/Germany/France/Palestine/Egypt/Qatar) by Suzannah Mirghani follows teenage Nafisa who becomes the centre of a power struggle over genetically modified seeds to determine the future of her village, blending ecological critique with coming-of-age drama. Roqia (Algeria/France/KSA/Qatar) by Yanis Koussim is set in 1993 and explores trauma and healing through a dual-timeline story of amnesia, exorcism, and generational fear. Final Cut in Venice: Two DFI backed projects screen as part of Venice's industry platform for films from Africa and select MENA regions in post-production: The Station [Al Mahatta] (Yemen/ Jordan/ France/ Germany/ Netherlands/ Norway/ Qatar) by Sara Ishaq is set in a women-only petrol station in war-torn Yemen, where three siblings confront impossible choices. Untitled Project from Yemen (Yemen/Norway/France/Qatar) by Mariam Al-Dhubhani is a raw documentary exploring survival, memory, and the fragility of home amid conflict. Venice Production Bridge: Three DFI-supported films are selected for this vital co-production and financing platform: Sound of Silence (Lebanon/France/Greece/UK/Qatar) by Joyce A. Nashawati is a chilling horror set in 1970s Greece, where two young women encounter a death cult while seeking refuge in a convent. Tarfaya (Morocco/France/Belgium/Qatar) by Sofia Alaoui is a sci-fi fable about an epidemic that causes people to fall into deep sleep, prompting a search for truth and human connection. The Missing Camel (Morocco/France/Senegal/Mauritania/Qatar) by Cheikh N'Diaye fuses folklore and politics in a man's quest to reclaim his royal lineage while confronting colonial legacies. With this bold and diverse selection, DFI not only marks a milestone in its Venice journey—it reiterates its global role as a catalyst for transformative cinema. By amplifying stories from regions often overlooked by mainstream media, the Institute continues to champion bold, resonant voices that redefine the global storytelling includes Golden Lion contender and multiple world premieres across the festival's most prestigious sections including projects by homegrown talents Suzanna Mirghani and Mariam Al-DhubhaniStrongest-ever DFI showing at Venice underscores its pivotal role in shaping global independent cinema
Broadcast Pro
30-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Broadcast Pro
Doha Film Institute announces 2025 Spring Grants supporting 45 film projects
Five projects by Qatari and Qatar-based creators, together with 16 projects led by women filmmakers and 12 by returning directors. The Doha Film Institute has revealed the recipients of its 2025 Spring Grants, continuing its mission to champion independent filmmaking across the Arab world and beyond. This year, 45 diverse projects representing more than 35 countries have been selected to receive support from the film funding initiative, which has backed more than 950 projects in 75 countries to date. Awarded twice a year in Spring and Fall, the DFI Grants programme is dedicated to discovering and nurturing first- and second-time filmmakers, supporting a broad range of works including feature narratives, documentaries, shorts, experimental and essay films, as well as TV and web series. The 2025 Spring cycle highlights the growing presence of women filmmakers, with 16 projects directed by women, alongside 12 returning grantees and five projects by Qatari and Qatar-based talent. This round also marks the return of voices from Yemen and Sudan and showcases strong Gulf representation from Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Qatar. In addition to Qatar, this cycle's grantees come from countries including France, Iraq, Canada, the UK, Jordan, Tunisia, Italy, Egypt, Lebanon, the USA, Germany, Algeria, Switzerland, Belgium, Libya, Japan, Singapore, the Philippines, Indonesia, South Africa, Mozambique, Palestine, Portugal, Russia, the Netherlands, Iran, India, Norway, Denmark, Morocco, Syria, Rwanda, Uzbekistan and Bahrain. Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, Chief Executive Officer of the Doha Film Institute, stated: 'Our Grants programme was founded to offer tangible support for original stories and important voices from around the world. These 45 films reflect the bold, diverse, and deeply human stories that challenge convention and are shaping the future of cinema. In a time marked by conflict, displacement and uncertainty, these stories offer urgently needed perspectives and affirm the role of film as a witness, a bridge and a call to empathy.' Among the selected feature narrative projects are The Arab Apocalypse by Samy Sidali, Madness and Honey Days by Ahmed Yassin Al-Daradji, Sari & Amira by A.J. Al-Thani and A Sad and Beautiful World by Cyril Aris. Feature documentaries include Akal by Basma Rkioui, Pure Madness by Inès Arsi and Do You Love Me by Lana Daher. Notable international titles such as Renoir by Chie Hayakawa, Variations on a Theme by Jason Jacobs and Devon Delmar, and Memory by Vladlena Sandu reflect the Institute's commitment to a truly global independent cinema. The grants also extend to emerging voices in television and digital formats, including Like a Feather in the Breeze by Sherif Elbendary, Legacy of Light: Echoes from the House of Wisdom by Maha Al-Naemi, and web and short form works like Imagine Me Like a Country of Love by Thana Faroq and Hidden Journey by Noura Adil Suliman.
