Events & Attractions
9 films to see at Dubai International Film Festival
9. El Clasico
When: Wednesday, December 9, 8pm
Where: The Beach
What: Norwegian-Kurdish director Halkawt Mustafa’s feature is all about little people dreaming big. It charts the story of two brothers, Alan and Shirwan, and how the fierce rivalry between Barcelona and Real Madrid acts a backdrop to the struggles – economic, social, romantic – faced by dwarves in their community.
Screens again on Monday, December 11, 6.15pm at Vox, Mall of the Emirates
8. The Idol
When: Friday, December 11, 7.30pm
Where: The Beach
What: The latest film from two-time Oscar-nominated director Hany Abu Assad leaves behind the wry, black comedy of previous work – Divine Intervention, Omar – for the more uplifting tale of Mohammad Assaf, the Palestinian singer who won TV talent contest Arab Idol in 2013. There is, though, plenty of real-world grit as Abu Assad lays bare the horrors of life in Gaza.
Screens again on Saturday, December 12, 9.30pm at Vox, Mall of the Emirates
7. Room
When: Thursday, December 10, 10pm
Where: Madinat Jumeirah Theatre
What: A story of emotional and physical survival adapted from Emma Donoghue’s best-selling novel, Room follows the five-year-old Jack and his mother, who are being held captive in a shed. It is only world Jack has ever known until they plot their escape and see the world that lies beyond it. Unsettling, beguiling and bursting with brilliantly nuanced performances, the Oscar buzz is definitely growing – and much deserved. Its gala screening on the festival’s first Wednesday is a fitting way to open DIFF 2015.