A voice for aspiring filmmakers
dubai — More than 3,000 filmmakers from around the world sent their entries to the first-ever short film festival organised by the students of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Dubai Campus.
70 short films including 33 from the UAE were shortlisted for screening and award nomination for this dream initiative started from April 20 to 23.
White Oryx International Short Film Festival (WOIS Short Film Fest) aims to create a platform to showcase student and amateur short films from the UAE and facilitate a learning atmosphere through free film screenings, workshops, forum sessions, networking and other fun activities.
To offer diversified content to the attendees and inspire regional filmmakers, the festival also brings the best of short films from all over the world without any limitations on genre or theme.
The event was conceptualised by the students from the School of Media and Communication (SoMC) after noticing a significant lack of opportunity, especially for the expatriate and student filmmakers in the region. While student and amateur filmmakers can fulfill their dream of having their work showcased on the big screen, film-lovers will get to appreciate regional talent and take part in a wholesome festival experience.
Supported by Dubai International Academic City (DIAC) and Student Hub as venue partners, the event commenced on April 20 at 6pm at the Conference Centre, Dubai Knowledge Park.
Film screenings and workshops will be held at the same venue on April 21 and April 22. The closing ceremony will be held at MAHE Dubai Campus on April 23.
Entries from the UAE will be in competition for the Golden Oryx Awards with the prizes being sponsored by Grand Stores Digital. A filmmaking kit including a Nikon D5600 DSLR camera, microphones, lights, and other equipment will be awarded in three categories — Best Short Film from the UAE, Best Short Film from a UAE University, and Best Short Film from a UAE School.
Media professionals including Leoni Milano, Alexandra Maia, RJ Arfaz of Hit 96.7 FM will nurture students and budding filmmakers through workshops on topics such as introduction to filmmaking, storytelling, colour grading, creative writing and food photography. Key partners are Nikon, Sony, MediaCast, SAE Institute.