The Mohammed Bin Rashid School for Communication (MBRSC) at the American University in Dubai (AUD) has launched its third annual international film festival aimed for students across the globe.

Titled “ON: Original Narrative”, the event will take place at AUD from February 6 to 9.

Original Narrative offers new talents the chance to write and create innovative films. This year’s festival, once again, consists of several categories: documentary, fiction, animation, and screenwriting. Over 600 submissions were made to this year’s festival, among which 54 have been officially selected to compete.

Festival Committee President Sophie Boutros said: “The ON Film Festival has become a platform where a new generation of aspiring filmmakers around the world has the opportunity to share its views.”

“The festival aims to inspire, recognize and reward these up-and-coming filmmakers, showcasing students’ short films and screenplays from the UAE, the region and beyond, and providing a much-needed hub for students to network with peers and established industry professionals.

“Original Narrative offers new talents the chance to write and create innovative films. This year’s festival, once again, consists of several categories: documentary, fiction, animation, and screenwriting,” she added.

The schedule of events will involve a variety of recreational and educational activities, including the showcase of selected screenplays that will be read and discussed with producers and industry professionals; workshops on filmmaking and acting under the supervision of professionals; industry networking, in addition to a variety of activities, surprises, the red carpet ceremony and the award ceremony.

The winners will gain international exposure; have a chance to win cash prizes and other valuable awards to support their dreams.

The ON Festival has become an annual tradition and a platform particularly for talented Arab students.

Jamal Al Sharif, managing director of Dubai Media/Studio City and Chairman Dubai Film and TV Commission, said: "We are pleased to be partnering with AUD once again for the third edition of their short film festival for students. The festival provides an excellent platform for the next generation of filmmakers to learn, compete and exchange ideas, which plays an important role in pioneering creativity and innovation across the UAE.”

 “We are committed to nurturing young talent and supporting the organic growth of the media ecosystem here in Dubai, and we are confident that through our close engagement with universities and talented students, we will be able to support the growth of the talent pool here in the UAE,” he added.

ON: Original Narrative short-film festival is organized in collaboration with strategic partner Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF), media partner MBC and platinum sponsor Cadillac. – TradeArabia News Service