Amman International Film Festival Launches 6th Edition under the Slogan "A World Beyond the Script"
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The Amman International Film Festival (AIFF) kicked off its sixth edition on Wednesday evening under the thought-provoking theme “A World Beyond the Script”, in the presence of Prince Ali bin Al Hussein, Chairman of the Royal Film Commission, along with Princess Rym Ali, Princess Jalila bint Ali, and Prince Abdullah bin Ali. The opening also welcomed a host of film stars and creators, including Saba Mubarak, Georges Khabbaz, Diamond Bou Abboud, Yousry Nasrallah, Rashid Masharawi, and Tara Abboud, along with several cast members of the hit series AlRawabi School for Girls, and international filmmakers from around the world.اضافة اعلان
In her opening remarks, Princess Rym Ali, President of the Festival, explained that this year’s slogan symbolizes “a world that has turned its back on diplomacy and dialogue, where humanitarian principles and basic decency have collapsed, and where madness and silence have become the new language.” She added: “The filmmakers we selected are the ones capable of restoring sanity and direction to such a world.”
Festival Grows Despite Regional Challenges
In an interview with Zahrat Al Khaleej, Festival Director Nadi Doumani emphasized that the festival continues to grow each year, despite the challenges facing the region. She noted a number of firsts for this year’s edition:
Ireland was selected as the guest of honor, represented by acclaimed Irish director Jim Sheridan.
A record number of Jordanian films (11) are participating in this year’s competitions.
For the first time, the festival included a dedicated section for web series.
Select films were presented with sign language interpretation, expanding accessibility.
Doumani highlighted that the festival remains committed to its core identity—“First Film”—focusing on debut works by directors, actors, or writers. While global cinema is part of the lineup, Arabic films remain a central focus.
Opening Night Highlights
The opening ceremony featured:
A Cherkessian folkloric performance
A live musical medley, including improvised vocal pieces by Jordanian singer Zein Awad
Introduction of the jury panels
The screening of the opening film, “The Teacher” (Ma Baad) by Palestinian director Maha Haj
The nine-day festival will showcase 62 Arab and international films, many making their world premiere, and some having already earned prestigious international awards. The event also includes panel discussions and workshops featuring global cinema professionals.
The Amman International Film Festival continues to serve as a regional platform for emerging voices, celebrating creativity and innovation in storytelling.
In her opening remarks, Princess Rym Ali, President of the Festival, explained that this year’s slogan symbolizes “a world that has turned its back on diplomacy and dialogue, where humanitarian principles and basic decency have collapsed, and where madness and silence have become the new language.” She added: “The filmmakers we selected are the ones capable of restoring sanity and direction to such a world.”
Festival Grows Despite Regional Challenges
In an interview with Zahrat Al Khaleej, Festival Director Nadi Doumani emphasized that the festival continues to grow each year, despite the challenges facing the region. She noted a number of firsts for this year’s edition:
Ireland was selected as the guest of honor, represented by acclaimed Irish director Jim Sheridan.
A record number of Jordanian films (11) are participating in this year’s competitions.
For the first time, the festival included a dedicated section for web series.
Select films were presented with sign language interpretation, expanding accessibility.
Doumani highlighted that the festival remains committed to its core identity—“First Film”—focusing on debut works by directors, actors, or writers. While global cinema is part of the lineup, Arabic films remain a central focus.
Opening Night Highlights
The opening ceremony featured:
A Cherkessian folkloric performance
A live musical medley, including improvised vocal pieces by Jordanian singer Zein Awad
Introduction of the jury panels
The screening of the opening film, “The Teacher” (Ma Baad) by Palestinian director Maha Haj
The nine-day festival will showcase 62 Arab and international films, many making their world premiere, and some having already earned prestigious international awards. The event also includes panel discussions and workshops featuring global cinema professionals.
The Amman International Film Festival continues to serve as a regional platform for emerging voices, celebrating creativity and innovation in storytelling.
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