The Doha Film Institute (DFI) held its annual talent and project meeting amidst an atmosphere charged with global tension, particularly stemming from the escalating crisis in Gaza. Attended by approximately 300 participants, the event took place at Doha’s prestigious Museum of Islamic Art. Reflective of the film industry’s responsibility in the face of societal upheaval, this year’s gathering not only showcased artistic endeavors but emphasized the essential role that storytelling plays in times of conflict and adversity.
Among the significant moments in the kick-off was a masterclass delivered by acclaimed Brazilian director Walter Salles, who recently celebrated an international accolades for his poignant film, *I’m Still Here*. His presence and insights served as a reminder of the transformative power of cinema to address urgent human issues. However, the celebratory tone was tempered by the somber realities underscored in the opening remarks by DFI CEO Fatma Al Remaihi, who addressed the incessant and troubling narratives attempting to stifle the voices in the region.
Voices Under Siege
In her compelling address, Al Remaihi did not shy away from gripping topics. She lamented the violent suppression of artistic expression, particularly referencing the grave incident involving Oscar-winning director Hamdan Ballal. His recent assault by settlers in his West Bank village and subsequent detention underscore a painful truth: That recognition and accolades in the film industry do little to shield filmmakers from the relentless grip of oppression. Al Remaihi’s assertion that “the promise of peace and ceasefire are merely cover stories for continued dehumanization” reverberated through the audience, highlighting the alarming urgency for storytelling as a vehicle for change amid prevailing silences.
The sadness of the film’s narrative became a backdrop to the festival but also fueled discussions about the resilience required from those wielding the camera. The ongoing conflict, which was reignited following the devastating October 7 Hamas-led attack resulting in over 1,000 Israeli fatalities and a severe military escalation that has decimated Gaza’s population, reveals stark contrasts between the power of storytelling and the harsh realities on the ground.
The Role of Cinema in Times of Crisis
Al Remaihi’s passionate call to arms challenged attendees to recognize their role as storytellers at a critical juncture in history. The DFI’s 15th anniversary is not just an occasion to celebrate past achievements; it’s also a clarion call to artists and filmmakers to confront the harsh realities they reflect in their work. “We must stand firm in our duty as storytellers and ambassadors for humanity,” she urged, establishing a unified front among the gathered creatives. The confrontation with silence—whether institutional, societal, or self-imposed—carries greater weight today in our interconnected global landscape.
Her remarks resonate across the film community and encourage an active resistance. Al Remaihi’s insistence that cinema transcends mere art and becomes a vital tool for societal change invites filmmakers to lean into discomfort, to confront the truths that their narratives can reveal. The violent outpourings against Palestinian voices only underline the necessity of platforms like Qumra, not merely as a venue for artistic output, but as a bastion for the unmuted expression of those historically sidelined.
The Call for Solidarity and Action
In a world grappling with selective empathy, where cultural institutions often retreat into silence, the onus lies not only on filmmakers but also on audiences to engage with uncomfortable dialogues. As Al Remaihi articulated, the cultural sphere must not succumb to complacency. Instead, it should recognize its potential in fabricating connections and fostering understanding, especially in contexts where conflict runs rampant.
The rise of settler violence following Ballal’s Oscar win exemplifies how success in one realm can exacerbate vulnerabilities in another. This reality confronts filmmakers with a crucial challenge: how to tell stories of resilience against the backdrop of ongoing trauma. Al Remaihi’s passionate plea insists that now, more than ever, artists must exercise their power, not just to narrate but also to reflect and provoke reaction in a world that desperately needs voices of reason and dissent.
The DFI’s initiatives highlight the crucial intersection between artistry and activism, shedding light on the vehemently necessary discourse around the narratives that perpetuate or challenge systemic oppression. With the 11th edition of Qumra fast approaching, the spotlight on these filmmakers becomes paramount, as the world needs their stories—unfiltered and unapologetic. In taking a stand against oppression, the realm of cinema fortifies its enduring legacy as a form of resistance and hope for a better tomorrow.