The entertainment industry has always been dominated by Western films and narratives, leaving little space for the voices and stories of filmmakers from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region to be heard. However, one production company is taking steps to support and empower indie cinema from this underrepresented region. Ambient Light Films, a L.A. and Cairo-based production company, recently announced its commitment to MENA filmmakers by awarding grants to six deserving projects.
The grants were presented at the CineGouna Bridge project market during the El Gouna Film Festival in December. These grants provide invaluable support for filmmakers in the MENA region, allowing them to bring their unique stories to life on the big screen. Among the recipients of these grants are Hinde Boujemaa and her film “Yammi”, which explores the complex emotions of a son following the death of his mother. Another worthy recipient is Dahlia Nemlich’s “Assa, a Fish in a Bowl”, a compelling story about a couple who hires an Ethiopian maid with unforeseen consequences.
One of the awarded grants went to Lebanese director George Peter Barbari for his film “So the Lover Could Come Out Again”. This thought-provoking film delves into the relationship between snipers against the backdrop of the Lebanese civil war. By supporting such projects, Ambient Light Films demonstrates its commitment to fostering dialogue around sensitive topics and shedding light on untold stories from the MENA region.
Tunisian road movie “Tunis-Djerba” by Amel Guellaty is another standout project that received a grant. This film takes viewers on a journey through Tunisia, exploring themes of cultural identity and self-discovery. By supporting these kinds of films, Ambient Light Films aims to bridge the gap between different cultures and promote understanding and empathy through the medium of cinema.
Ambient Light Films’ CEO, filmmaker, and producer Ali El Arabi understands the challenges faced by filmmakers in the MENA region. El Arabi himself got his start through the CineGouna Bridge, which supported his debut feature documentary “Captains of Zaatari”. This film, focused on a Syrian refugee soccer team in Jordan, not only received a CineGouna grant but also premiered at Sundance in 2021. With his personal experience in mind, El Arabi aims to pay it forward by offering grants and support to emerging talent.
El Arabi is passionate about amplifying the voices of MENA filmmakers on a global scale. He recognizes the limited exposure and opportunities available to these artists in Western markets, and he aims to change that narrative. By investing in and supporting these filmmakers, El Arabi hopes to bring their stories to European and American audiences, providing a platform for their voices to be heard worldwide.
Founded in 2016, Ambient Light Films has positioned itself as a company dedicated to empowering artists from the MENA region. With bases in Cairo and Los Angeles, the production company actively works to bridge the gap between the MENA region and U.S. and European markets. Their mission is to not only support individual projects but also to build long-lasting relationships with filmmakers, providing guidance and support throughout their careers.
The support and recognition of indie cinema from the MENA region is crucial to promoting diversity and inclusivity in the global entertainment industry. Ambient Light Films’ commitment to providing grants and support to filmmakers in this region is commendable. By amplifying the voices and stories of these talented artists, the production company is not only creating opportunities for them but also enriching the cinematic landscape with fresh perspectives and narratives. It is through initiatives like these that we can hope to foster a more inclusive and representative film industry for future generations.