A scene from Rise. Courtesy ADFF
A scene from Rise. Courtesy ADFF
A scene from Rise. Courtesy ADFF
A scene from Rise. Courtesy ADFF

Emirates Film Competition – what not to miss


Saeed Saeed
  • English
  • Arabic

The Emirates Film Competition returns to ADFF with new short films and documentaries by promising regional talents. Here are a few highlights from the non-students category.

Rise (UAE)

Director: Ali F Mostafa

As well as opening ADFF with From A to B, Ali Mostafa also shot this short as a companion piece to the rapper The Narcicyst's forthcoming album. The film deals with issues relating to modern Arab society and art.

Marwan the Boxer (UAE)

Director: Hassan Kiyany

A documentary following a 17-year-old Emirati boxer, Marwan, as he prepares to represent the UAE at a boxing competition in Bulgaria.

Super Lochal (UAE)

Directors: Sarah Al Agroobi, Omnia El Afifi, Mariam Ashour, Majida Al Safadi and Mahya Soltani

A quirky comedy following a young Emirati superhero who uses her powers to fight injustice and protect the weak. Her sidekick is Marvy Ann, the maid who raised the hero since birth.

Coming soon: our interview with the directors

Hind’s Dream (Qatar)

Director: Suzannah Mirghani

A story of a Bedouin girl left alone in the desert while her husband hunts. She recalls – through a poetic voice-over – a dream of wandering the desert, meeting an oracle and glimpsing the future.

Now Showing (Kuwait)

Director: Abdullah Al Daihani

A look at 1970s Kuwait during the country’s boom years. Three youths from different walks of life bond over their love of classic films.

For full details of the Emirates Film Competition screenings, visit www.abudhabifilmfestival.ae