Doha Film Institute (DFI) today announced the launch of Intaj 2023: Arab World’s Cinema, a multimedia exhibition that traces the evolution of Arab cinema and pays homage to the founders and pioneers of the industry in the Arab world. Open from November 10 until January 20, 2024 at Sikkat Wadi Msheireb, the event illuminates the complex tapestry of stories by Arab filmmakers and provides a contemplative space to explore the historical and current state of Arab cinema. Intaj 2023 confronts and transforms ingrained stereotypes of Arabic culture in cinema and stands as a testament to DFI’s dedication to authentic representation and fostering independent voices from the region.
Chronicling the epic journey of Arab cinema, Intaj 2023 delves into the roots of the industry, illuminating early 20th century founders and pioneers like The Lama Brothers, Al Taher Hannash, Togo Mizrahi and Albert Samama-Chikli from Palestine, Egypt, Tunisia, and Algeria. It also highlights the triumphant evolution in the region between the 1940s to the 1970s, and today’s filmmakers who have reinvented storytelling with their diverse and experimental approaches. The exhibition showcases the evolution of the industry across the Arabian Gulf, Levant, Iraq and North Africa including Egypt, Sudan, Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Iraq, Bahrain, Kuwait, UAE, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, and Qatar.
Intaj 2023 will include multimedia works by 12 local artists in Qatar: Noor Al Tamimi, Belal Khaled, Amira El Namla, Mohammed Al Hamadi, Kaltham Al Fakhroo, Hayan Monawar, Aya Battiri, Noora Al Saei, Nasser Al Kubaisi, Noor Al Nasr, Hanof Ahmed and Arman Al Mansouri.
Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, Chief Executive Officer of DFI stated: “Arab cinema has undergone an extraordinary transformation in recent years, emerging as a globally influential and recognized contributor to the industry. Intaj 2023 pays tribute to the filmmakers who laid the foundation for the rich narratives of today’s accomplished Arab artists that have been instrumental in challenging perception and breaking barriers to share our authentic stories and perspectives. Despite this, we are witnessing Palestinian voices being censored and misrepresented, and clearly, we still have a long way to go to reach true understanding and equality. It is crucial to share voices of independent cinema from our region and to honour our vast cinematic heritage.”
She added: “Intaj expresses proud recognition of our resonance with audiences around the world. The exhibition reflects the diverse cultural tapestry of the Arab world, and the power of film as a medium that bridges the connection between characters on the screen and audiences. The Institute is proud to have supported the creative journeys of the many talented artists who are driving progress to greater cross-cultural understanding in this new golden age of Arab cinema.”
Key contributors include Qatar Museums, Msheireb Properties, Khazaaen Archives (Palestine), City Lights Posters project (Lebanon), Arab Cinema Centre (Egypt), Sudan Film Factory, Mohammad Malas (Syria), Malek Akkad, son of late Moustapha Akkad (USA), Ridha Behi (Tunisia) and Naceur Ktari (Tunisia).
Qatar Museums will provide a fascinating exhibit of 19th-20th century optical toys, stereoscopes, and cameras, all of which highlight the captivating story of motion pictures. Their impressive movie memorabilia will transport the public into the world-making of Joseph Mankiewicz's 1963 epic historical drama "Cleopatra” – a cinematic masterpiece that was filmed across multiple locations, including the Egyptian desert.
Intaj 2023 offers visitors the opportunity to explore an outstanding assemblage of significant cinema objects, ranging from original documents and posters to personal effects gathered from industry pioneers between the 1930s to the 1980s. The exhibition will also feature industry talks, film screenings centered around Palestine, and a selection of timeless classics curated from the top 100 Arab films of all time.
The exhibition is open to the public, with talks and screenings available to attendees by pre-registration at: www.dohafilminstitute.com.