Children's International Film Festival brings together 800 aspiring filmmakers

The Children’s International Film Festival (CIFF), held in strategic partnership with the Dubai Film and TV Commission (DFTC) and powered by Nikon, has returned for its 3rd year, commencing on Thursday 28 April and concluding with a Gala Awards Ceremony on 7 May 2016. In association with VOX Cinemas, the 2016 edition of the Festival will showcase the talent and innovation demonstrated throughout while awarding the winning productions. 

This year, CIFF has conducted over 15 Nikon School Filmmaking Workshops for over 800 students across the UAE. The workshops engaged students by educating them on key skills required in pre-production, production and post-production of films. The students learnt new skills by using professional grade film-making equipment such as Nikon D610, D800 & D810 cameras, Nikon prime & telephoto lenses, HD studio monitors, boom mics, field mixers, and more.

In partnership with Dubai Customs, CIFF2016 has introduced a new category in the filmmaking competition  based on Dubai Customs’ IPR Department theme of “Together for a better protection”.  As part of this new category, CIFF 2016 also conducted a unique 3-day film-making camp for students from Kings’ School - Al Barsha. The camp aimed at enhancing media literacy, where the students got an opportunity during the camp to create their own short film, The Flames.

Commenting, Jamal Al Sharif, Chairman of Dubai Film and TV Commission and Managing Director of Dubai Studio City said;

“Our partnership with the Children’s International Film Festival once again this year is key, as the festival is an excellent platform for our future filmmakers to showcase their creativity and talent. Over the past few years, we have seen a number of innovative films created, and this year is no different. The response this year from students has been overwhelming, with so many young individuals taking part in the Festival; testament to Dubai’s development into a thriving film and production hub and its support of growing young talent.”

Founder and Director of CIFF, Ms. Jyoti Jain said, “We are grateful for the support extended by Dubai Film & TV Commission, Dubai Customs, VOX Cinemas and Nikon for this edition as well. The Nikon School Filmmaking Workshops were an instant hit and we have already seen the tremendous positive impact of these workshops on the quality of films ‘Made in UAE’ by students. CIFF2016 has not only educated & inspired young people in this country, but is also touching lives; many students have already decided to pursue a career in Media, Production and allied fields.”

“Photography and filmmaking play a significant role in enabling individuals to channel their creativity. Just like adults, children need an outlet for expressing themselves and sharing their thoughts. Through the Nikon lens, we are excited to see the visual representation of their stories at CIFF 2016,”said Narendra Menon, Regional Head, Sales & Marketing, Nikon Middle East FZE. “Photography and film are not only fun activities but they also contribute positively to the youth’s personal development. It is encouraging to see that today initiatives like CIFF provide an opportunity to the children to showcase their ideas. At Nikon School, we are committed to supporting the cause and providing platforms for the children to learn, grow, and consequently become master storytellers.”