"Mohammed Bin Rashid Library Presents Special Talk and Screening of Emirati Film "Mountain Boy

As part of its Cinema and Theatre program, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library organised a cultural event that featured a special talk and a screening of the Emirati film 'Mountain Boy', inspired by the novel 'The Boy Who Knew the Mountains' by Michele Ziolkowski. With a large turnout, the event was attended by Emirati director Zainab Shaheen and the film's star, Nasser Al Messabi.

The session reviewed the journey of transforming text into film through 'Mountain Boy', highlighting key challenges facing filmmakers, namely finding filming locations that capture the UAE's 1950s landscape.

Shaheen stated that one of the film's main objectives was to present a true picture of the UAE's nature, customs, and traditions to foreign viewers. She stressed that finding locations devoid of modern life, such as electricity poles and cars, posed a significant challenge given the different time period in which the film's events take place.

Shaheen explained that being from Fujairah helped her identify the natural locations that reflected the spirit of the story, noting that filming took 35 days, during which time a unique human and artistic relationship developed between her and actor Al Messabi. She described Al Messabi as extremely responsive, allowing him to deliver a sincere and touching performance as 'Suhail'.

On the other hand, Al Messabi expressed his happiness for participating in this film, stressing that this experience was a unique beginning for him in the world of acting.

'I truly enjoyed this experience, and I aspire to continue my artistic career and participate in new projects. There may be another film soon,' said Al Messabi.

'Mountain Boy' tells the story of Suhail, a child facing the challenges of life in the Fujairah mountains amidst his father's neglect. The film highlights his resilience and determination, embodying the Emirati community's values of support, inclusion, and empowerment. The film aligns with the UAE's Year of Community 2025 goals by highlighting the values of solidarity and inclusion, and posing profound questions about identity, isolation, and difference, particularly while living with autism.

The film marked a qualitative shift in Emirati cinema and left a huge impact on viewers, addressing rarely discussed human and social issues.

At the end of the event, attendees applauded the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library's pioneering cultural role in organising events that blend literature and the seventh art. They emphasised that such initiatives open new horizons for the public to interact with creative works in innovative ways, giving readers the opportunity to witness literary texts come to life on screen. Participants also commended the library's commitment to hosting local and international experiences that enrich the UAE's cultural landscape and strengthen its position as a beacon of knowledge and creativity.