The screening of the film will be followed by a discussion between screenwriter/producer Husam Hilali and Director Hajooj Kuka.
Warehouse421, a Dubai-based arts and design centre dedicated to showcasing and nurturing creative production across the region, in partnership with Cinema Akil, will conclude its programme on December 16, 2020, 8 pm. The closing programme will feature a talk series in which Cinema Akil will host a panel discussion on the future of Arab filmmaking focused on Sudan as a case study.
The film Talking about Trees by Suhaib Gasmelbari is about the insurmountable resistance encountered by four friends who attempt to revive an old cinema in Sudan. The film, which focuses on the history of Sudanese cinema, also sheds light on the current situation in the crisis-ridden country.
The discussion will be moderated by screenwriter/producer Husam Hilali in conversation with Director Hajooj Kuka, whose 2014 documentary Beats of the Antonov premiered at TIFF and won the People’s Choice Award. The film has screened at over 60 festivals and won seven international awards.
Ali Al Adawi, programmer and critic based in Alexandria (Wekalet Behna), will also join the discussion to reflect on the modes of distribution, production opportunities, trends and themes, success stories in Sudan and the larger region.
Register here to receive a link to watch the film. Then join the live panel discussion on December 16 at 8 pm. Please note that the film can only be accessed in the UAE.
