The AIFF Celebrates Ireland as Country of Honour Jim Sheridan to Feature in “First & Latest” Section

Amman, 17/6/2025 – The Amman International Film Festival – Awal Film (AIFF) is proud to announce Ireland as the Country of Honour for its sixth edition, taking place from 2^nd to 10^th July 2025.

Ireland’s rich storytelling tradition, much like that of the Arab world, leans into themes of identity, resilience and memory. Within this year’s theme, “A World Unscripted”, it brings people together and speaks to our shared sense of responsibility where Irish and Arab narratives converge, each offering an unscripted lens into personal and collective struggles, and the human need for expression, truth and hope.

The Spotlight on Irish Cinema includes five major titles: “My Left Foot” and “In the Name of the Father” by Jim Sheridan and both starring Daniel Day-Lewis, “Michael Collins” by Neil Jordan, “The Wind That Shakes the Barley” by Ken Loach and “The Banshees of Inisherin” by Martin McDonagh.

Nada Doumani, the Festival Director, commented: “By honouring Ireland, a human and cinematic bridge is built between Arab and Irish narratives. Both carry old wounds, but also tales of love and success from which powerful and deeply humane films emerge.”

The Festival is also honoured to welcome acclaimed Irish filmmaker Jim Sheridan as the guest of this year’s “First & Latest” section. A six-time Oscar nominated writer and director; Sheridan has shaped the international perception of Irish cinema through films, which include in addition to the above “In America” (2003) and “Brothers” (2009). In this special section, the director will reflect on his cinematic journey – from his earliest work “My Left Foot” (1989) to his newly released “Re-creation” (2025) – exploring the evolution of his storytelling and the deeply humanistic spirit that runs through his work. Sheridan will be hosted in a public conversation with acclaimed Egyptian director Yousry Nasrallah, on 6^th July 2025 at the Royal Film Commission – Jordan.

The Festival is made possible with the support of long-standing partners, among which: Jordan Tourism Board, The Royal Film Commission – Jordan, Abdali Investment and Development, Zain Jordan, Royal Jordanian, Edgo, Ghiath & Nadia Sukhtian Foundation, Greater Amman Municipality, HUE, TAJ Cinemas, Olivewood Studios, Institut Français – Jordan.

For all information visit our website www.aiff.jo or email us at: info@aiff.jo or call us at +962792222011.