Fourth Gulf Film Festival welcomes participation from region’s industry professionals, students and media

The Gulf Film Festival, the home of bold, experimental and contemporary cinema from the Arabian Peninsula, has opened its doors to industry professionals, students and media for its fourth edition to be held from April 14 to 20, 2011 at Dubai Festival City. 

The 2010 edition of the Festival drew more than 670 delegates from 29 countries across Europe, the Americas, Asia, Africa and the Middle East, including 150 industry professionals, 190 filmmakers and more than 200 media. More are expected this year. 

Creative and business professionals working in and around the region’s film industry – from actors, cinematographers and editors to producers, investors and cultural institutions – are eligible to register as Festival delegates for 2011. In addition to the free Festival films, delegates will receive access to industry workshops, panel discussions and other special events. 

As part of the Gulf Film Festival’s focus on encouraging talent from the region, the Festival is also welcoming film students from around the region. Registered students will be able to participate in special student-oriented events including hands-on workshops, seminars and site visits, and receive access to the GFF filmmaker lounge, media suite and Festival headquarters. 

Shivani Pandya, Managing Director, Gulf Film Festival, said: “One of the main roles that the Festival plays is that of a creative commons for the region and the industry. This is the only opportunity for these filmmakers – and anyone involved or devoted to film – to meet, discuss, to experience and to learn. We want to ensure access to all our events for all those who are enthusiastic about film, beginning with the next generation.” 

The free registration is also open to representatives of broadcast, print, online and social media, including bloggers and tweeters. 

Online registration, via www.gulffilmfest.com, will continue until April 13, 2010. Onsite registration will continue at the Festival headquarters at Dubai Festival City after April 14, 2010. 

The fourth edition of the Gulf Film Festival will be held at the InterContinental Hotel and Grand Cinemas at Dubai Festival City. The 2011 Festival includes out-of-competition segments, a master class by renowned director Abbas Kiarostami and other special events. All films are free and open to the public. 

The festival is supported by Dubai Culture & Arts Authority and is held in association with Dubai Studio City. More details on the festival are available online at www.gulffilmfest.com.