HE the Minister of Culture, Arts and Heritage Dr Hamad bin Abdulaziz al-Kuwari at the opening of the Ajyal Youth Film Festival on Sunday. PICTURE: Najeer Feroke.

The third Ajyal Youth Film Festival, presented by the Doha Film Institute ( DFI), got under way at Katara on Sunday. The festival will run until December 5.

Putting the spotlight on young Arab talent and highlighting its commitment to promoting the next generation of filmmakers, the festival will host the screening of 80 films from 36 countries including a showcase of 17 films ‘Made in Qatar.’

The third Ajyal Youth Film Festival flagged off with the Middle East and North Africa premiere of The Idol directed by Academy Award-nominated Hany Abu-Assad, bringing the inspiring life story of Arab Idol champion Mohamed Assaf to the big screen.

The opening red carpet gala welcomed Hany Abu-Assad, Mohamed Assaf, the film’s producers Ali Jafaar and Amira Diab, cinematographer Ehab Assal and a range of acclaimed filmmakers and local and regional celebrities.

The Ajyal Film Competition’s 520 young jurors also participated in the opening ceremony at the Katara Opera House.

Over the week, they will watch and analyse a dynamic programme of films under three competitive sections – Mohaq, Hilal, and Bader – followed by discussions and events including panels, workshops and Q&A sessions with filmmakers.

At the opening ceremony, HE the Minister of Culture, Arts and Heritage Dr. Hamad bin Abdulaziz al-Kuwari said that the Ajyal Youth Film Festival is an initiative that brings great value to the community.

“It was created to bring people of different generations together through cinema and the first two editions have made a positive impact on the lives of many people. Telling our stories through film allows us to connect as a community, to share our perspectives and to generate cultural dialogue within our society. Ajyal gives great importance to developing the creativity of the next generation.”

Fatma al-Remaihi, festival director and CEO, DFI, said: “This year, we pay tribute to the 120-year history of cinema. Over the next seven days, we will make our own history through the films of Ajyal. Audiences young and old will experience films that will delight, inspire, entertain and move them.

“Alongside a dynamic selection of the best films from around the world, the Ajyal Youth Film Festival also celebrates the extraordinary talent emerging in Qatar with two special programmes of films in the Made in Qatar section. Our film screenings as well as a range of special events, exhibitions, digital installations, outdoor screenings, live performances, panels and family weekend activities defines Ajyal as a truly community oriented event that also nurtures the next generation of talent.”