Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF 17) considered as one of the top 15 must-visit film festivals, is back in Dubai for its 14th edition. It will take place from the 6th to 13th of December 2017. Prepare to watch original movies in scoop coming not only from the Arab World but also from across the Globe.
Furthermore, during these days DIFF 17 will have a Forum with interesting industry-oriented talks, a Film Market where this bursting industry cooks their future productions. And even a Virtual Reality film programme that we are really looking forward to seeing.
DIFF 17 VENUES
DIFF 17 counts with different venues along Dubai although Madinat Jumeirah is the headquarters of the Festival. The venues will play an important role in this cinematographic experience. All audiences will have the opportunity to enjoy cinema at its best.
For those looking to dress up, Madinat Arena will be hosting Gala Screenings and Red Carpets.
For the ones feeling like chilling and relaxing “The Beach” at JBR is your place. They will have open-air free-to-attend screenings. Make sure you get there on time to grab you puff.
Galleria Mall will be showing films at the amazing rooftop VOX Outdoor Cinema. In both places, you can enjoy the breeze while watching a great movie. Grab your popcorns, good company, and a jacket!
Classic fans don’t worry, there is also a venue dedicated to you all. VOX Cinemas at Mall Of Emirates and Madinat Theater offer a comfortable experience for exigent cinephiles.
THE FILMS
At the 2017 Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF 17) is all about the movies that are being played along the festival. This edition we will be able to enjoy a wide selection of original movies. In almost 40 different languages, the festival aims to show the enrichment of a cultural dialogue.
We have asked our team about the films they are not willing to miss. This is their selection. Mind you, it hasn’t been an easy task to shortlist them. All the movies are excellent.
OUR TEAM CHOICES
LORENA’S PICK
The Shape Of Water
As a big fan of the award-winning director Guillermo Del Toro, I’m really looking forward to seeing his new movie. The beauty of strangeness and magical atmosphere are his signatures. This is an unconventional love story. A mute cleaning lady working at a government laboratory finds love in an anthropomorphic sea creature that is being studied.
When & Where: Sunday, December 10th, 21:00 – Gala screening at Madinat Jumeirah Arena.
Uchiage Hanabi, Shita Kara Miru Ka? Yoko Kara Miru Ka? (Fireworks, Should We See It From The Side Or The Bottom?)
Loving all Japanese things, my next movie on the list is this anime directed by Noboyuki Takeguchi. A story of love, friendship and the daily struggles of mid-school students.
When & Where: Friday, December 8th, 18:15 – Mall of the Emirates VOX.
Nelyubov (Loveless)
Winner of the Jury Prize of the last Cannes Film Festival and Best Film at London Film Festival this movie looks promising. This story is about a couple facing an intense divorce that triggers their kid to run away.
When & Where:
Thursday, December 7th, 18:00 – Mall of the Emirates VOX.
Saturday, December 9th, 14:30 – Mall of the Emirates VOX.
The Killing Of A Sacred Deer
Because Nicole Kidman is one of my favorites actresses, this movie is a must-see for me. A psychological thriller about a heart surgeon: Steven, who becomes friends with Martin, an awkward teenage boy. As Martin gets closer to Steven’s family, strange things begin to happen.
When & Where: Monday, December 11th, 18:00 – Madinat Theatre.
VIDA’S PICKS
La Mélodie (Orchestra Class)
Kad Merad is one of the most famous French actors. Through his different movies, he always delivers emotional performances whether it’s a comedy or a drama movie. The story is about a teacher who is an aging, disillusioned violinist and his student in Paris. So it is all about discovering passion for music in Paris, the most romantic city in the world.
When & Where:
Thursday, December 7th, 21:30 – Madinat Arena.
Saturday, December 9th, 19:30 – Galleria Mall.
One Of These Days
Set in the charming and vulnerable Beirut. The movie follows the lives of three young people, Maya, Yasmina and Tarek during 24 hours. I’m looking forward to this movie to discover more about the attachments of these characters to Lebanon. A politically fragile nation which culture and heritage remains strong.
DIFF “ONE OF THESE DAYS” FILM POSTERWhen & Where:
Thursday, December 7th, 2017 22:00 – Mall of the Emirates VOX.
Saturday, December 9th, 2017 18:30 – Mall of the Emirates VOX.
Film Stars Don’t Die In Liverpool
A romantic drama. Gloria Grahame, an American Hollywood actress, falls in love with a British man while suffering from cancer. Seems like a heartbreaking love story, so don’t forget to bring a box of tissues!
When & Where:
Monday, December 11th, 21:00 – Mall of the Emirates VOX.
Wednesday, December 13th, 14:30 – Mall of the Emirates VOX.
The Bachelors
I’m a lover of romantic films and happy endings. The Bachelors is about a widowed man traveling around the US with his son. They meet two amazing women that will change their lives and help them rediscover love.
When & Where: Wednesday, December 13th, 19:30 – The Beach, JBR.
MARTA’S PICKS
MANOLO
Who won’t love to have a Manolo’s shoes in their closet! This fashion related movie had to be part of the list. This is a documentary about Manolo Blahnik’s life. From his humble origins to become one of the greatest shoemakers of the XXth Century.
When & Where: Monday, December 11th, 19:30 – The Beach, JBR.
Visage Villages (Faces Places)
I felt a deep connection with this movie because I love traveling, observing and learning through people’s ways of life. A beautiful visual journey through the French countryside. Featured and directed by Agnès Varda and JR an urban artist/photographer. We will be part of their travel, spreading their artistic view of daily life.
When & Where: Sunday, December 10th, 18:45 – Mall of the Emirates VOX.
BENZINE
I felt interested in this movie because is not a usual story of immigration. This movie tells the story of a Tunisian family who hasn’t heard about their son who immigrated to Italy.
When & Where: Tuesday, December 12th, 22:00 – Mall of the Emirates VOX.
FERDINAND
I selected this movie because of my Spanish blood, and I grew up surrounded by this tradition. It’s an animation about a Spanish fighting bull who prefers smelling flowers over chasing red clothes. A meaningful story about breaking our own stereotypes and fighting for what we want to be.
When & Where: Friday, December 8th, 14:00 – Madinat Arena.
If you want more information, check the following hashtags and handles:
@Dubaifilmfestival
#DIFF17
Dubai International Film Festival is key to develop a film culture in the region. So invite your family and friends and go all together to the DIFF 17 movies!
3,2,1 Action!
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