Brussels: Europe and the Arabs
The 13th edition of the Southern Film Festival will open this evening in Brussels, from November 4 to 7. The festival management has chosen the Moroccan film "Jalal al-Din" to be screened at the opening ceremony. It is directed by Moroccan Hassan Ben Jelloun and deals with the life of Jalal al-Din, who refuses to accept the death of his wife and decides to isolate himself until he finds the light within him. After twenty years, Jalal al-Din becomes a Sufi teacher who lives with his followers. The closing film is the Tunisian film "Under the Tree" by young Tunisian director Arij Sehiri. The film takes the viewer into the worlds of the countryside of the city of Kesra, in the Siliana Governorate in central Tunisia, and is like a mirror reflecting the reality of the country.
In statements to the "Europe and the Arabs" website, the festival president, Rachida Chibani, said that the festival returns this year with a program that highlights the richness and diversity of cinema from the Arab world with films that testify to the creativity and passion of directors, whose own productions and joint productions are expanding. These films are from: Egypt, Tunisia, Morocco, Lebanon, Yemen, Algeria, Qatar, Iraq, the United Arab Emirates, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, France, Belgium, Denmark, Sweden, and we can clearly see that the West is very interested in producing and participating in the production of a rapidly developing cinema. This year, the majority of films question the issue of women in these societies. This year's specificity is the focus on the characteristics of independent cinema in terms of financing, production and distribution. It is of utmost importance to understand the issues it faces and what possible solutions can be explored. To this end, a training course with the great cinematographer Michel Boudour, who has worked with many Arab directors, is being organized on Tuesday, November 5. The festival management said on its website that over 4 days, the festival will present new films in competition, tributes to some figures, master classes in independent cinema, an exhibition, film discussions, music and exceptional meetings. Our festival returns this year with a wonderful selection of films, highlighting the richness and diversity of Arab and Southern cinemas. For 4 days, we will have the privilege of discovering exceptional cinematic works, offering unique perspectives on cultures, history and experiences that are often overlooked. Our program promises a deep immersion in the world of contemporary cinema through feature and short films. We are particularly proud of this eclectic selection, which bears witness to the creativity and passion of filmmakers from these regions, whose own productions and co-productions are even more extensive this year. We aim to offer an unforgettable cinematic experience, rich in emotions and discoveries. In addition to the film screenings, the festival will also offer meetings with directors, film discussions and special events to celebrate the magic of cinema in all its splendor. We therefore invite you to join us in this celebration of the seventh art, where intercultural dialogue and artistic discovery are highlighted.”