After a very successful event just last year, the AIU Film Festival returns to the American International University campus in Kuwait from November 5 to November 11, and it promises to be a cinematic extravaganza once again, full of excitement and creative energy. The countdown has certainly begun for film enthusiasts as they gear up for an immersive experience which is not only a showcase of films, but a celebration of storytelling, visual artistry and the magic of the silver screen.

This event promises to be bigger, better and even more captivating than its predecessor, which was a very successful inaugural event last year. This year includes seasoned professionals who will take part in the screenings, workshops, and lectures from November 5 until November 9.

Cinescape has joined efforts with AIU as a strategic partner in the Film Festival, helping to enhance the festival’s scope and reach by hosting screenings at their venues in Assimah Mall and 360 Mall. This collaboration aims to engage a larger youth audience in Kuwait. Cinescape’s experts will also serve as speakers, sharing valuable industry insights to elevate the festival’s quality and reach. In addition to Cinescape, AIU have also partnered with several esteemed sponsors – Debenhams, Weyay and Ali Alghanim & Sons – who have all generously supported the festival and demonstrated their commitment to the promotion of culture and arts, within Kuwait and beyond.

The speakers include award-winning Director, Dr. Zeyad (Z) Alhusaini, Deputy General Manager of Programs and Marketing at the Kuwait National Cinema Company, Ghalia Hayat, Director at the Bustop Creative Agency, Tarek Jammal, Director of Photography at Ethos, Aida Alzanki, Director Maryam Alabbad, Screenwriter Mohammed Al-Mayahi, and Executive Director Maryam Faisal AlOmani. It also includes Creative Director, Costume and Set Designer Fay Faisal Al-Homoud, Producer, Director and Musician, Sayood and Co-Founder of Sinbad Pictures, Faisal Al Agel.

The first four days of the Festival are bound to be exciting with lectures that are sure to keep everyone excited and on the edge of their seats. It begins with Dr. Zeyad (Z) Alhusaiai as he speaks about his popular film, ‘How I Got There’ and the process he went through from script to film on November 5. If you’re interested in how producing a film works and all the intricacies of it, then make sure to take part in Faisal Al Agel’s lecture, “How to Produce a Film” taking place on November 6.

The next day is bound to be busy with two lectures as Aida Al Zanki takes the stage to give tips on “How to Get Into the Industry” before Mohammed Al Matahi speaks about “The Art of Storytelling”. November 8 will also see two speaks as Tarek Jammal talks about “Framing the Emotions” while Maryam Al Abbad tackles a critical topic focused on “Women in the Industry”. Last but most certainly not least is Sayood and he speaks about what made him the person he is today with the “Art of Animation”.

Throughout the festival week, the AIU Film Festival will of course, be showing screenings of films daily from 9:30-10:30 AM and from 12:30-1:30 PM. “The Moon Follows Me”, “Night”, “Aalish”, “Traffic”, “The Mist” and many more captivating films await the screen, so be sure to join in, immerse yourself, and actively engage in the full experience.

This year’s film festival received an overwhelming response from filmmakers worldwide, with over 3,000 films submitted from over 114 countries. The selection process was rigorous, resulting in the showcasing of over 40 outstanding films that will be shown throughout the festival, which encompasses a wide spectrum of genres and styles, promising to captivate audiences and spark meaningful conversations.
What makes this festival particularly thrilling is the convergence of emerging talents and seasoned veterans all under one roof to exchange ideas, learn, and find various ways to grow. The screenings are not just about watching a film, it’s a shared exploration of the art form and the different ways storytelling can be effective.

The festival is planned to be concluded with an Award Ceremony taking place on November 11 to close the curtains on an educational, fun and engaging week.

The AIU Film Festival is one that no one should miss as it promises to be a hub of artistic exchange, workshops, discussions and interactive sessions that delve deeply into the intricacies of filmmaking. It’s an opportunity for attendees to deepen their understanding of the craft, learn from established professionals, and perhaps even discover the spark that ignites their own creative journey.

For more information, please visit the official festival website, or follow AIU on social media @aiu_kw for updates and highlights. Be part of a cinematic celebration that promises to be bigger, bolder, and more inspiring than ever before.