Four Abu Dhabi-backed films are heading to the Toronto International Film Festival, to be showcased on the big screen.
The four films are all supported by SANAD, the Abu Dhabi Film Festival’s (ADFF) development and post-production fund. Open to Arab moviemakers, the fund provides extra support to filmmakers to complete or develop their projects.
Films to be showcased at the Toronto International Film Festival include two narrative films, ‘Theeb’ – directed Naji Abu Nowar and ‘The Valley’ – directed by Ghassan Salhab. In addition two documentaries will be showcased, including ‘Iraqi Odyssey’ directed by Samir and ‘The Wanted 18’ directed by Amer Shomali and Paul Cowan.
“This achievement is a testament to ADFF and SANAD’s success in supporting and developing international quality Arab films,” said Ali Al Jabri, director of ADFF.
“SANAD serves as a vehicle for identifying and supporting worthwhile projects and we are confident that such films will go on to create a meaningful body of work that ensures greater Arab artistic representation in contemporary world cinema,” he added.
‘Theeb’ has also been selected for Orizzonti competition of Venice Film Festival later this month. It is the only Arab feature film to be screened in the official selection of this year’s programme in Venice.
This will be the fifth consecutive year SANAD films will be screened at the prestigious film festival. The Toronto International Film Festival will be held from 4th to 14th September.
