Eleven films directed by AUS students and alumnae to be screened at Abu Dhabi Film Festival 2014

American University of Sharjah (AUS) students and alumnae form a major part of the lineup of nominees for the Emirates Film Competition at the Abu Dhabi Film Festival (ADFF) 2014, which began on October 23. Ten of the films selected were produced and directed in classes taught at the AUS College of Architecture, Art and Design (CAAD).

The nominations for the Emirates Film Competition include Tolerance directed by Jomard Jamil, Khitam directed by Tala Mooti, 38 directed by Haya Hajj Mourad, Fashla directed by Munira Alshami, Conquer directed by Ayse Ozkul, Zentai directed by Aya Al-Gergawi, Negative Feelings directed by Ibrahim Mohammed, Belonging directed by Joud Al Amry, Till When directed by Areeb Al Shathri and Senior directed by Deena Stevens. Also selected was the film Super Lochal directed by Sarah Alagroobi, Majida Alsafadi, Maram Ashour, Omnia Elafifi, Mahaya Soltani and Sarah Zohair, who are all CAAD alumnae.

Jack Swanstrom, Assistant Professor in the Department of Art and Design at CAAD, said, "The College of Architecture, Art and Design and the Department of Art and Design have always strongly supported independent and student voices in regional cinema. I think that this group of student filmmakers-in particular the women making films this year-have made an exceptional leap forward in the creation of an independent film scene in the UAE and we are immensely proud of their accomplishments."

Nominee Deena Stevens said, "ADFF is such an incredible opportunity because it provides the perfect platform to come together and discuss a shared passion for film. It really helps cultivate a great environment to meet future collaborators and friends. I'm so grateful to be part of such an enlightening experience, and I can't wait to meet more filmmakers in this year's festival."

Established in 2007, the Abu Dhabi Film Festival aims to encourage film culture through the region and works at bringing Arab filmmakers to the forefront. This year's edition of the film festival will run October 23 to November 1, 2014.