The 2025 Cannes Film Festival has begun, featuring the opening-night film *Leave One Day* by debut French director Amelie Bonnin. The lineup includes high-profile premieres like Wes Anderson’s *The Phoenician Scheme*, Richard Linklater’s *Nouvelle Vague*, and new works from acclaimed filmmakers like Joachim Trier and Julia Ducournau.

** The Doha Film Institute has announced details of its new Doha Film Festival, including $300,000 in awards and four competition strands. The festival, running November 20–28, expands on the institute’s existing Ajyal Film Festival.

What This Mean: ** This signals growing investment in Middle Eastern cinema and cultural events, positioning Doha as a hub for global filmmakers. The festival could boost regional talent and attract international attention to Qatar’s creative industry.

** The Doha Film Institute has announced the launch of an ambitious international film festival focused on indie and auteur cinema, offering $300,000 in prizes. The event will replace the existing Ajyal Film Festival, expanding its scope to showcase global independent films in the Middle East and North Africa region.

What This Mean: ** This signals a significant investment in elevating independent cinema in the MENA region, potentially attracting global talent and fostering cultural exchange. It reflects a growing recognition of the region as a hub for artistic innovation in film.