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SICFF 2018 Kicks Off On October 14th
Organisers of the Sharjah International Children’s Film Festival (SICFF 2018) have announced the agenda of the sixth edition of the festival dedicated to bringing young people and movies together, which unveils on October 14. Themed “Think Cinema”, the six-day cinematic extravaganza, which continues until October 19 will play out at the Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre (JRCC), and will bring 138 films by local, regional and international directors to the festival audience. This will include its longest-ever list of premiers with 54 films, consisting 12 international, 34 Middle Eastern, 7 UAE and 1 Gulf premiers.
The details of SICFF 2018 were revealed at a press conference in Sharjah today (Monday), held at Cinema City in Zero 6 Mall and hosted by festival organiser, FUNN – Sharjah Media Arts for Youth and Children – an organisation established under the vision and patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of His Highness, the Ruler of Sharjah and Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs, dedicated to engaging the UAE’s young generations in media arts.
The event will also feature an extensive programme over 40 specialised workshops, interactive sessions, and appearances by celebrated industry professionals, including filmmakers, directors, cinematographers and artists – all designed to ignite the imagination of young film enthusiasts, act as a platform where they can have new creative experiences, and increase their know-how of films and the media arts in general.
During the press conference, FUNN reiterated its commitment to encouraging young filmmaking talent in the UAE, enhancing film and media arts literacy, advancing the artistic taste of youngsters and inspiring them to know more about cinematographic techniques and skills. FUNN also asserted that it will keep children and young people in the region up-to-date with the most important and latest movies targeting them, in order to enable them to participate in shaping the future of this vital industry in the Arab world.
Unveiling the details of SICFF 2018, Sheikha Jawaher bint Abdullah Al Qasimi, Director of FUNN and SICFF, said: “The festival will bring together an impressive galaxy of promising talents from around the world who have chosen SICFF as a platform to showcase their work and introduce their countries’ cultures to a global audience.
“With our longest-ever premiers list comprising 54 films, SICFF’s selections this year will lay special focus on the plight of refugees. We take immense pride in offering Sharjah’s screen to these films – an emirate that is recognised globally for its leading efforts to develop culture and creativity in people. Our festival could not have seen the light of day if it weren’t for the patronage and unfailing encouragement offered by His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and his wife, Sheikha Jawaher Al Qasimi.”
She added: “We believe that art is key to enriching the personalities and perceptions of young people, and that the ideas presented in films are strong catalysts that fire up children’s imaginations and develop their ability to discover beauty.” The SICFF director revealed that the festival is organizing panel discussions for the first time. They will be delivered by internationally-acclaimed industry experts and professionals. Among them is Walt Disney Animation Studios’ animator, Brian Ferguson, who will speak at a session titled ‘Disney World between the Past and the Present’.
Another session, ‘Filmmaking with Refugees’ will bring together animation artist Simon Medard from Studio Camera, etc., and Lebanese filmmaker, Diaa Mulaeb, who will highlight the role of films in documenting the plight of refugees. The session, ‘Cinema now and then’ will host Emirati author and scenarist, Hamad Al Shehabi, and Bahraini filmmaker, Mohammed Ibrahim, a board member at the Bahrain Cinema Club and Head of the Special Film Screenings Committee. Journalist and movie critic, Mansura Abdul Amir has also confirmed participation.
Emirati actor, producer and director, Abdullah Al Humairi will shed the spotlight on the important topic of the impact of social media on the film industry, the challenges in filmmaking via social media platforms. Al Humairi was at the press conference, where he said: “As we approach the sixth edition of SICFF, which furthers the cultural vision of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, and his wife, Sheikha Jawaher Al Qasimi, we look forward to phase in Sharjah’s and the UAE’s efforts to promote the power of visual arts, particularly film, and offer it to the young generations as a way of enriching their lives.”
He added: “Since its inception in 2013, SICFF has opened a window for Emirati and Arab children to look through it into various cultures. The festival, the first-of-its kind event dedicated for Arab children, aims to nurture a new generation of creative artists who can enrich the Arab cultural landscape with creative work.”
Mariam Al Serkal, Chairperson of the Majid Kids TV, said: “Majid Kids TV, under the umbrella of Abu Dhabi Media (ADM), is dedicated to providing purposeful content suitable for young audiences. It takes the elements of innovation, diversity and entertainment into consideration to reach out to all segments of community.”
“We have partnered with SICFF as the festival’s objectives are in perfect alignment with ours. We seek to ensure that children and young adults are offered the training they need to contribute to the world, by enabling them to face the past-paced cultural and intellectual changes” she added.
Majid Kids TV is bringing three interactive initiatives for young audiences at SICFF, which will engage them with backstage TV personnel, introduce them to the techniques of cartoon and animation, and participate in auditions at the Majid Studio to test their vocal capabilities and learn about the techniques of voice-over performance. Finally, The Lost Diamond Mystery activity will help improve their problem solving and critical thinking skills.
SICFF 2018 is organising over 40 workshops to open up the wonderful world of movie-making to creative young minds. The ‘Stop Motion for Special Needs’ workshop will be delivered by Sahar Abdullah, an expert in the field. Visual effects artist and crew member of the Walt Disney film, “A Wrinkle in Time”, Sebastian Reichhold, will present a 3D films workshop. He will also be speaking at a session to reveal the specialised techniques that went into making the film.
The ‘Introduction to Photoshop’ workshop will be hosted by Mahmoud Al Hassan, member of the Emirates Falcons Photography Society, and Ryan Palis will bring cool photography tricks to the young audience. Filmmaker Ghassan Abdullah will be teaching cinema tricks, and Farouk Hassan, a specialist in cinematic visual effects, will conduct a workshop on special makeup effects.
The festival will screen a selection of short films based on the lives and struggles of refugees in a number of countries such as Syria, Lebanon, Egypt, Jordan, Sudan and Ethiopia. Some of these films have been directed by filmmakers with support from UNICEF and UNHCR, while some others have been directed by refugee children themselves.
The US has the maximum number of entries competing for the SICFF Awards, followed by France and Russia. The festival features seven award categories, including Best Short Arab Film, Best Student-made Film, Best International Short Film, Best Animation Film, Best Documentary Film, Best Feature Film, and Best Child-made Film.
Submitted films will be evaluated by an independent jury featuring Arab and international film experts, critics and media personalities, renowned artists, directors and producers. Some of the names include Saudi documentary films producer Hana Makki, Bahraini actress Haifa Hussein, Palestinian filmmaker and producer Hani Abu Assad, film animator Brian Ferguson, movie critic Mansura Abdul Amir, and animator Simon Medard.
The festival has received the generous patronage of Crescent Enterprises and Gulftainer (Gold Partner), Tilal Properties (Silver Partner), Government of Sharjah and Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (Bronze partners), OSN, FUJIFILM, INSTAX, Sharjah Airport and Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Support sponsors), Emirates, BMW AGMC (Official Carrier) and Majid Kids TV (Official Children TV Partner).
Dubai Parks and Resorts, the Middle East’s largest theme park destination, is set to thrill guests with a wide range of holiday experiences. These include spectacular Festive-themed laser show, festive events and workshops, live shows and parades, along with the park’s exciting rides, rollercoasters and attractions from Friday, 8th December 2023 to Thursday, 7th January 2024.
At RIVERLAND Dubai, the night sky will come alive with a dazzling new Laser Show, Wednesday to Sunday at 7:30 PM, 8:30 PM, and 9:30 PM, creating a mesmerising spectacle with colourful lights and laser beams choreographed to festive themed music for all to enjoy. Guests can explore Santa’s Grotto and meet Santa himself at Viva Ristorante Restaurant and immerse in the festive spirit at the Peninsula Stage with Christmas carols and sing-along performances every Friday through Sunday. Guests can’t miss Sandy’s Candy World Spectacular, a parade that runs every Wednesday to Sunday at 9:00 PM, promising a sweet and vibrant procession to captivate audiences of all ages. To extend the holiday celebrations even further, friends and families of all ages are welcome to enjoy the heavenly tunes of 35 children of Dubai Youth Choir singing festive carols on 16th December.
MOTIONGATE Dubai invites guests to step into its Hollywood Holidays, promising an unforgettable festive season filled with parades, character meet and greets, mesmerising snowfall, and a magnificent 40-foot Christmas tree. The park transforms into a spectacle of lights and enchanting decorations, setting the perfect festive ambience. Adding to the holiday cheer is the debut of a new live stage show, ‘Home for Christmas’ at the Hollywood Theatre. Guests are invited to watch this heartwarming experience, adding an extra layer of joy to the holiday celebrations.
Meet Rudolph and his reindeer friends as they dance to popular holiday tunes in the ‘Time to Sleigh!’ street show or catch the elves and toy soldiers dancing to popular seasonal hip hop tunes in the ‘Toy Factory Fellas’. For those craving delicious holiday treats, MOTIONGATE Dubai’s festive night market will offer various delights, including crepes, gingerbread cookies, churros, hot chocolate, and much more. To enhance the holiday experience, guests can explore the 15 themed retail shops, each offering an exclusive selection of souvenirs inspired by fan-favourite films such as Kung Fu Panda, Ghostbusters, Hunger Games, Shrek, and more.
Meanwhile, at LEGOLAND Dubai Resort, families are invited to join the Festive Bricktacular from Thursday, 14th December 2023 to Sunday, 7th January 2024. Guests can participate in the LEGOLAND Countdown to Christmas, an advent calendar that will give them the chance to open a door and win a LEGO box set every day until 24th December 2023. In addition, guests can also explore Santa’s Grotto and meet LEGO Santa himself (an Exclusive Paid experience for just an additional AED 125 when visiting LEGOLAND Dubai this December) who has special presents awaiting a limited edition Festive Bricktacular bag, a photo with LEGO Santa, exclusive Santa’s Grotto LEGO Brick, LEGO box set and a letter from LEGO Santa. Even more daily prizes await guests with the introduction of a new Countdown to New Year advent calendar from 25th December to 31st December.
The fun doesn’t have to end there, families are invited to join Lapita, Dubai Parks and Resorts’ third edition of the Lu’WOW Weekender. The UAE’s first and only Polynesian resort will be hosting exclusive festive-themed staycation packages from 24th to 26th December 2023, starting from AED 1,399++ for a King Room and AED 1,799++ for an Upgraded Family Suite. Two children under the age of six are welcome to stay and dine with the hotel’s compliments. Here, families will start Christmas day with a nutritious breakfast, followed by a festive brunch from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, with the resort coming alive with live music and street performances.
Outdoor kids’ activities and attractions will ensure the little ones are entertained, with a festive-themed scavenger hunt featuring prizes as well as a special meet & greet with Santa, spreading joys and gifts to his young fans. On Tuesday, 26th December, guests can start their day with morning yoga sessions, while those seeking to stay active can enjoy Aqua Gym sessions at the family pool and children are invited to participate in Mini Olympic competitions, for some perfect family bonding.
As Halloween descends upon MOTIONGATE Dubai, the mysterious Taleweaver, a masterful narrator tucked away in a decaying library within the Nightmare Dimension is turning words into frightening reality, bringing haunting legends and nightmares to life. Prepare for spine-tingling adventures as the Middle East’s largest Hollywood-inspired theme park returns for the sixth season of the biggest Halloween Fright Nights yet.
From 30th September to 31st October 2023, guests can immerse themselves in an array of Halloween activities at MOTIONGATE Dubai with this year’s theme – ‘Curse of the Taleweaver’. This year, memorable stories such as Dracula, The Boogeyman and Midas will come alive at the park. Transforming into the United Arab Emirates’ spookiest family destination, MOTIONGATE Dubai’s Fright Nights: Volume VI will run Wednesdays to Sundays from 4 p.m. onwards, promising an unforgettable Halloween experience.
Experience hair-raising adventures with MOTIONGATE Dubai’s lineup of spooky fun, including 13 immersive horror experiences, scare zones, monster meet and greets, thrilling live stage shows, and a haunting parade for an unforgettable time.
FIVE GHOULISH IMMERSIVE HORROR EXPERIENCES
Embark on five captivating spooky experiences led by the mysterious Taleweaver, who is bringing everyone’s childhood nightmares to life. Inspired by hair-raising folk legends and myths, the Taleweaver guarantees an unforgettable and bone-chilling experience.
Located in Studio Central, guests can experience the Golden Curse as they explore the chambers of King Aurelius, whose touch turns everything to gold. Step into these gilded corridors for a bone-chilling immersive experience but beware as golden soldiers lurk in the shadows of King Aurelius’ labyrinth. Oh, and be wary of what you touch!
Over at The Twilight Mirror, silence reigns in the ominous manor. Listen closely as the walls whisper tales of dread. The audio experience promises screeches and goosebumps.
For a darker encounter, brave souls can venture into the medieval dungeons of The Forsaken Piper in Underworld, Columbia Pictures zone. Summoning a horde of rats, the Pied Piper has transformed the prison into a realm of ruin, disease, and despair, a haunting testament to the piper’s nightmarish lair awaiting unsuspecting guests. No kids allowed.
An ancient passage tucked within the Columbia Pictures zone; Wraith’s Lament is guarded by eerie phantoms with sensitive hearing. A smart scholar made magical bells to disrupt the phantoms and make a path forward. In this interactive experience, guests can ring the bells to find their way, but they should be careful of the lurking phantoms.
Suitable for Halloween buffs of all ages, the Grim Tales: Dracula in Hotel Transylvania offers a spine-tingling experience where terror takes centre stage. Within the Taleweaver’s library, filled with scary books, horror comes to life as guests are immersed in the tales of Dracula.
THREE CREEPY SCARE ZONES
Prepare for screams and spine-chilling adventures as unsuspecting guests will encounter haunting characters as they venture into the spooky scare zones. Guests will be taken back to the 1950s as they walk through Nightshade Street, where innocent children playing with unknown forces cast their street into an eternal abyss. Now, until eternity, the creepy giggles of once-innocent children, echo as they revel in the screams of terrified guests.
For a more thrilling experience, guests can enter the haunted tent in Zombieland, Columbia Pictures, where the Freakshow of the century unfolds. As the tent veils rise, manic laughter fills the eerie room, setting the stage for spine-tingling entertainment. Both young and old can enter the Haunted Graveyard at the Hollywood Theatre. Ruled by the crypt keeper, each step on the decayed soil awakens restless spirits, promising laughter and (mostly) screams.
PARADE, SHOWS & MONSTER MEET AND GREETS
With a mix of spine-tingling excitement, MOTIONGATE Dubai’s captivating parades and shows are sure to keep guests of all ages engaged and entertained. Get ready for a scary live stage show as The Hollywood Theatre hosts The Taleweaver’s Nightmare Emporium, offering a chilling narration as myths and legends come to life before guests’ eyes.
Over at Studio Central, guests can witness the Midnight Tales street parade unfold, led by the mysterious Taleweaver, who summons terrifying creatures and manipulates nightmares, creating a mesmerising spectacle. The boundary between reality and imagination fades further with The Tale Weaver’s Short Stories, where guests, young and old, can enjoy family-friendly short stories from the mastermind himself that promise to captivate and thrill.
“Trick or treat?” Get ready for delightful meet-and-greets with the mischievous Candy Goblin, a playful trickster known for two things: his love of games, especially hide and seek, and his sweet tooth. Guests who have the skill to catch him will receive a tasty reward of delicious candies. Halloween lovers can also meet The Boogeyman in Studio Central, who lurks at the corner with mysterious and clever tricks that challenge even the bravest’s wits and courage.
Moreover, the park’s beloved characters will don Halloween-themed attire and eagerly greet their fans. For the younger ones, the charming Smurfs Village is back with its annual Trick-or-Treat activities. Here, children can fully immerse themselves in the Halloween spirit as their favourite Smurf-y friends distribute candy, creating delightful memories that will last a lifetime.
Are you ready to face your fears? MOTIONGATE Dubai’s biggest Fright Nights Volume VI is here and it promises to be an absolute scream.
Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, the first Marriott Hotels resort in the UAE, has unveiled its spectacular collection of premium Suites and Penthouses. Each is a secluded haven with sweeping views of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai skyline.
In the Presidential Suite, a newly imagined experience awaits guests as they elevate beyond the everyday. Accommodating up to six guests, the 400-sq-m sanctuary features a private bar and entertaining area, spacious living and dining areas and dynamic bathroom experiences with a sauna. Furthermore, guests can enjoy a fully equipped kitchen and panoramic views over Dubai Marina and Ain Dubai.
Offering elevated amenities, the Royal Penthouse boasts sweeping city and sea views and an expansive private outdoor terrace with a private jacuzzi. Sleeping up to six, this lavishly appointed penthouse offers distinguished amenities complete with thoughtful design elements to ensure guest enjoyment is a priority. In-suite comforts include a fully equipped bar and entertainment area, a kitchen with a Lavazza coffee machine and a spacious master suite with a separate lounge. The enhanced bathroom experience with walk-in showers and large baths complemented by Maison D’asa amenities and a private sauna, is not to be missed!
Meanwhile, the allure of the Palm Penthouse lies in its expansive terrace offering the ideal entertaining area with an outdoor bar, sun deck, premium cabanas, jacuzzi and alfresco dining spaces. Sleeping up to six guests, in-suite comforts include Maison D’asa amenities, walk-in showers and large baths. A fully equipped bar and entertainment area adorns the living room along with a kitchen with a Lavazza coffee machine and a stunning master suite with a separate lounge.
Other Suites unveiled at Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, Dubai include the Palm Suite, Executive Suite and Palm Family Suite. Many of the Suites and Rooms within in the resort are interconnecting or interleading, making them the ideal choice for larger families or group holidays.
“We are thrilled to invite guests to experience our new collection of premium Suites and Penthouses at Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, with its unparalleled combination of blissful surroundings, thoughtful comfort and exceptional amenities,” said Gerrit Schmitt, General Manager at Marriott Resort Palm Jumeriah.
“Whether in our Palm Suites, our sophisticated Presidential Suite, exceptional Executive Suites, phenomenal Palm Penthouse or the legendary Royal Penthouse, our guests will experience the pinnacle of wonderful hospitality, destined to make every stay with us, a truly unforgettable one,” he added.
As an exclusive benefit, all Suite and Penthouse stays include access to the M Club Lounge. Open 24/7 the lounge serves complimentary refreshments, a breakfast buffet, an afternoon tea spread, a grab ’n’ go menu and canapes in the evening. Which can all be enjoyed alongside the signature Cocktail Hour overlooking the shimmering Dubai Marina.
Guests are encouraged to book the limited-time Suite Dreams offer, which includes a stay in the one-of-a-kind Penthouses or sophisticated Suites, with daily buffet breakfast, exclusive perks with discounts, AED 400 spa credit, exclusive M Club lounge access & more. Simply apply the promotional code HDK when booking online.
Suite Dreams offer:
Stay in the finest Penthouses or modern, sophisticated suites at Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah this summer! The resorts are the ideal getaway allowing guests to escape the every day and explore the exceptional. In-suite amenities include large terraces and balconies, iconic sea views, modern dining and entertainment areas and exclusive 24/7 access to M Club Lounge.
- WHAT: Penthouses or elevated suites using the Suite Dreams Offer
- WHERE: Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah
- WHEN: Until September 30, 2024
- PRICE:
- Palm Suite and Executive Suites are starting from AED 1,500 ++
- Presidential Suite rate is starting from AED 9,200 ++
- Palm Penthouse starting from AED 10,100 ++
- Royal Penthouse starting from AED 12,100 ++
- Rate includes:
- Daily buffet breakfast
- 25% discount off F&B
- AED 400 spa credit per person for a maximum of two adults
- Exclusive 24/7 access to M Club Lounge with breakfast, light bites during the day, a Grab & Go menu, & evening canapes & cocktails
- Kids under 12 stay for free with unlimited access to the Kids club free of charge from 9.00 to 20.00
- PROMOTION CODE: Apply the promotional code HDK when booking online
- *Terms and conditions apply. Packages are available until September 30, 2024. Blackout dates apply and room prices may vary.
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