‘Khartoum’ Co-Director Ibrahim ‘Snoopy’ Ahmad on Filmmaking Amid War, Collective Authorship and the Future of Sudanese Cinema

Sony Pictures International Productions has entered a multi-year agreement with Qatar’s Film Committee to co-finance Arabic-language films from the Middle East and North Africa, announced during the Doha Film Festival's Industry Days event. This partnership aims to enhance the production and visibility of regional cinema.

Tom Quinn, CEO and founder of Neon, will be the opening speaker at a new industry event organized by the Qatar Film Committee in collaboration with the Doha Film Institute. This event is part of the inaugural Doha Film Festival, which aims to enhance international interest in the Gulf region's film industry.

The inaugural Doha Film Festival commenced with the Middle East premiere of Tunisian director Kaouther Ben Hania's poignant film 'The Voice of Hind Rajab.' The film, which addresses the impact of conflict on personal lives, was introduced by the victim's mother, who expressed her loss yet emphasized her enduring humanity. This event underscores Qatar's commitment to promoting independent Arab cinema and enhancing its presence in the global film industry.

The inaugural Doha Film Festival opened on an emotional note with the MENA premiere of Kaouther Ben Hania's film 'The Voice of Hind Rajab.' The film, which tells the story of 6-year-old Hind Rajab who was killed in Gaza, was introduced by her mother, highlighting the personal impact of conflict. The festival aims to showcase diverse narratives from the region.

The Doha Film Festival (DFF) has opened its inaugural edition, highlighting Sudanese cinema and music at a critical time when the country faces ongoing war and mass displacement. The festival's program aims to celebrate Sudanese culture while addressing the challenges faced by its filmmakers and people, emphasizing the importance of visibility in the current context.