The Dubai Film Connection (DFC), the co-production platform of the Dubai Film Market focused on Arab cinema, will bring 13 stellar Arab film projects to the Dubai International Film Festival to benefit from networking opportunities and funding support.

DFC will run from December 9 to 11 during the 13th edition of the Dubai International Film Festival, scheduled between December 7 and 14.

The location of DFC in the heart of the Dubai Film Market allows Arab talent to develop valuable partnerships with international industry professionals and seize opportunities to earn needed funding to help transform developing projects from script to screen, a statement said.

Devoted to nurturing and celebrating excellence in Arab cinema since its inception in 2007, the DFC has already helped bring more than 50 films from the Middle East to fruition; films which have gone on to achieve global acclaim after passing through the Festival’s doors.

Helping emerging regional talent to release their potential has been made possible due to the generous awards from supporting organisations as part of Dubai Film Connection which include $10,000 Cinescape/Front Row Award; $10,000 from the ART Award; and $25,000 from the Dubai International Film Festival and euros 5,000 International Organisation of La Francophonie

In addition to monetary prizes, five of the DFC’s most talented producers will be selected to receive complimentary accreditation to the Cannes Film Festival’s Producers Network, one of the world’s most prominent film markets.

Shivani Pandya, DIFF’s managing director, said: “Working alongside the Dubai Film Market, the DFC is an incubator for collaboration and development. It represents DIFF’s commitment to supporting the world of Arab cinema and provides an international platform for regional talent. The support provided by the DFC is vital for the growth of the regional filmmaking industry as the filmmakers and their projects include a vast range of explorative themes and intimate stories from the region, helping the cinematic excellence of the UAE and Middle East gain global recognition.”

Jane Williams, Director – Film Connection, said: “The Dubai Film Connection plays a fundamental role in supporting filmmakers from the Arab region to build strong networks with film industry professionals from across the international industry and provides vital funding opportunities to help bring their feature film projects to the screen. It is really fulfilling to be able to provide rewarding prospects to the talented producers from the Arab world, contributing to the future of the filmmakers as individuals and the flourishing industry as a whole.” – TradeArabia News Service