Doha, Qatar                                                                                                                                                                                          26 Nov 2017

5^th Ajyal Youth Film Festival, presented by the Doha Film Institute from Nov. 29 to Dec. 04 at Katara Cultural Village, will offer a diverse slate of 36 short films in competition from Qatar and around the world, representing a wide range of perspectives and cinematic approaches.

This year’s line-up of 36 short films in competition presents a rich showcase of inspiring tales from 28 countries. Collectively, the programme will help raise awareness on global issues amongst the youth and stimulate their creativity and thought process. Many of these debut productions transcend multiple genres and varied narratives, and each demonstrate the power and precision of short form cinema made by new voices from Qatar and around the world.

Ajyal jurors in each category analyse the films in their respective categories and select standout works that they feel most strongly engage their inquisitive minds and present authentic statements on society and contemporary culture.

Jurors aged 8 to 12 will watch and discuss films under the Mohaq category with 12 short films to be screened.

Jurors aged 13 to 17 comprise the Hilal jury, who will watch 10 short films, while the Bader jury, aged 18 to 21, will watch two programmes of seven films each.

All three Ajyal Juries will choose the Best Film from their categories, and the directors of the winning films will receive funding support for their next film.

Fatma Al Remaihi, Festival Director and CEO of Doha Film Institute, said: “Short films are an extremely refined form of cinematic expression, requiring very precise focus, where each shot and frame is measured, weighed and shaped to ensure its effectiveness.

She said that We sourced films from across the world to present our jurors a vivid cross-section of movies that present new perspectives on life, transcends borders and provides fresh insights into communities and people.

‘In line with the theme of our festival, we focused on films that inspire our audiences with the lighter as well as profound side of life, and encourages them to contribute to positive social change’, Fatima AlRemaihi said.