The 2024 Ajyal Film Festival, presented by the Doha Film Institute, centres on the theme Moments That Matter, celebrating cinema’s powerful ability to connect lives and inspire empathy through diverse storytelling. To be held from November 16 to 23, this year’s Ajyal will feature 66 impactful films from 42 countries, exploring themes of resilience, hope, and community empowerment. The festival also includes interactive discussions, inclusive screenings, a film exhibition, and Qatar’s largest pop-culture event, Geekend, with events across Katara, Sikkat Wadi Msheireb, Lusail, and VOX Cinemas at Doha Festival City.
Opening night documentary: Sudan, Remember Us
Kicking off the festival is Sudan, Remember Us by Hind Meddeb, an inspiring documentary supported by the Doha Film Institute. It portrays the power of youth activism in cultural advocacy, highlighting young Sudanese activists who fight for freedom through poetry and unity, underscoring cinema’s role in challenging oppression and celebrating resilience.
Amplifying voices: Voices from Palestine and Intaj: From Ground Zero
Among the highlights, Voices from Palestine and Intaj: From Ground Zero Experience amplify Palestinian voices, shedding light on the ongoing challenges and vibrant resilience of people in the region. These programs feature works from Palestinian filmmakers who capture the complexities of survival under occupation, with From Ground Zero spotlighting 22 short films by young artists from Gaza.
Special screenings and exclusive previews
Ajyal’s Special Screenings program brings audiences immersive cinematic experiences, including Cambodian director Rithy Panh’s latest project Meeting with Pol Pot, an exclusive preview of The Apprentice: ONE Championship Edition filmed in Qatar, and outdoor screenings under Doha’s night sky. Also featured is Flow, an award-winning animated feature screened as part of Ajyal’s initiative for young audiences from Palestine in Qatar.
Supporting local talent
The Made in Qatar segment will showcase works by local filmmakers, with the addition of the Made in Qatar Shabab initiative, a platform to support emerging talent and offer young filmmakers essential industry insights to thrive.
Inclusive screenings for all audiences
Ajyal 2024 will provide adapted screenings for audiences with hearing, visual, or speech comprehension challenges. This commitment to accessible cinema aims to ensure every viewer can enjoy the festival’s offerings, underscoring Ajyal’s dedication to an inclusive environment.
Star-studded guest lineup
This year’s festival welcomes a stellar lineup of guests, including Palestinian actors Saleh Bakri and Hiam Abbas, Egyptian actor Khaled El Nabwy, Turkish actress Esra Bilgic, Thai entrepreneur Chatri Sityodtong, and renowned filmmaker Rithy Panh, among others. Their presence will enrich the festival experience and bring unique perspectives to the event.
Celebrating the Qatar-Morocco year of culture
Ajyal will also celebrate the Qatar-Morocco Year of Culture with the Made in Morocco program, showcasing films that capture Morocco’s rich traditions and evolving cultural landscape. The segment offers an authentic glimpse into Moroccan life, blending heritage with contemporary social insights.
Geekend: A pop-culture paradise
Geekend returns from November 20 to 23, offering fans a dedicated pop-culture experience featuring gaming, animation, and more. This ultimate celebration of “all things geek” is a festival favourite and brings together enthusiasts from all walks of life.
Ajyal 2024: A platform for compassion and understanding
Ajyal 2024 continues to underscore the importance of cinema in cultivating compassion and bridging divides. The festival’s comprehensive program aims to create enduring connections and celebrate the transformative power of storytelling, ensuring that Moments That Matter resonate long after the festival ends.
