Film industry is becoming very prominent in Oman, thanks to the Ministry of Information's role in promoting this sector. It has initiated a number of film festivals that host hundreds of films from different countries. These festivals are wonderful opportunities for passionate Omani filmmakers to enrich their experience, create a wider background of film making and attract audiences.
The second Al Sharqiyah International Film Festival, organized by the Omani Cinema Society, was held in January at the Traditional Ships Factory (Al Wushar). It hosted a number of guest artists, directors, movie enthusiasts and the public.
The festival included 255 films from 35 countries including Bahrain, Egypt and Iraq. 36 films were qualified, including 20 international films and 16 Omani films.
The makers of winning films were presented with awards during the closing ceremony. It consisted of 12 awards including the Ministry of Information Award.
The Best Omani Short Documentary Film Award as well as the Best International Short Documentary Film Award were presented to the Bahraini Film “Under the sands” directed by Jaan Al Balushi.
Under the Sands is a documentary film that showcases an area in Balochistan Province in Pakistan characterized by the accumulation of sand that covered some houses.
The film provides a comprehensive look at the lives of residents and the challenges they face in this difficult environment surrounded by sand. It highlights their personal stories and struggles, the difficulties they encounter and their lifestyle in unconventional circumstances. This film is an opportunity to understand the life of those people who face challenges on a daily basis.
Dr Hamed al Ameri, president of the Omani Cinema Society, said during the ceremony “We are celebrating the second edition of Al Sharqiyah Film Festival, which comes within a national cinema project of the Omani Cinema Society and managed by a distinguished group of its members who have dedicated themselves to showcasing some of the neglected issues in an artistic way.”
Such festivals form an amazing and inspiring experience for film-makers to improve their work and expand their knowledge.
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