MANAMA — Preparations are underway for the Naqsh Short Film Festival (NSFF 2014) with  the entry of over 100 films representing 36 countries. The third edition of the festival will run for five days in Bahrain starting on October 15.

“We are very pleased with the number of participation received this year,” said the Artistic Director of the Naqsh Short Film Festival, Mohammed Buali. “This reflects the increase in awareness toward the film industry in the region and beyond.”

“Short Films send a message across in a short time span using individual and technical skills that cannot be found in other type of films. Our main aim behind organizing the festival is to promote innovation and the use of film technology; the main features behind attracting audiences,” he added.

This year, 31 films from the Kingdom of Bahrain will be featured along with 5 Asian films and 34 animation films. The Naqsh Film Festival, organized as a non-profit event, is poised to become a regional hub for aspiring artists. This year’s festival will focus on Saudi Arabian films, Asian short films and international animation films. 

“What makes the festival different this year is the quality of films to be screened by the Dubai International Film Festival. They will be screening 14 movies that have so far captivated the audience,” he added.

“We believe that through the Naqsh Film Festival we will be able to cultivate and promote the new talents in the region. This festival is a platform for talents to emerge and enhance the film industry in the Middle East. Through the festival we help to support the rising talents,” added Buali.

NSFF had been on the forefront of the regional filmfest bandwagon and has been steadily accumulating followers since it was first held on July 2012 at Al A’ali Complex. The 45 film entries on its first year almost doubled in 2013, having increased to 87 entries by more than 57 directors from 10 countries, with its viewership growing annually since it started. — SG