Amman International Film Festival Announces its 2023 Edition, Submissions Open

Amman, Jordan – 5 March 2023 – The Amman International Film Festival- Awal Film (AIFF) is pleased to announce it is now accepting films and projects for its upcoming edition. The Festival continues for its fourth year in a row and is scheduled to take place between 15 and 22 of August 2023 in the Jordanian Capital.

On this occasion, Princess Rym Ali, President of the Festival, said: “As we embark on the 4th year of the Amman International Film Festival, we are reminded of the butterfly effect that cinema can have on the world. A single story can spark a conversation, shift perspectives and ignite change, resonating with audiences near and far. Through the Festival’s growth and expansion, we have witnessed first-hand the transformative power of cinema, how it can connect us despite our differences, and inspire us to dream beyond our limitations. We are excited to continue our mission of celebrating diversity, promoting cultural exchange and showcasing the infinite possibilities of the art of filmmaking. I look forward to sharing, with everyone, what promises to be an unforgettable celebration of the power of cinema, here in Amman.”

With its emphasis on first-time achievements, the AIFF is unique in its focus on supporting emerging talent in the filmmaking and cinema industry. The Festival features four competitive categories that recognise outstanding contributions, awarding winners with the prestigious Black Iris bronze trophy as well as monetary prize.

To qualify, films must have been released in 2022 or 2023 and be a Jordanian première. There are specific regulations that apply to each category, which must be adhered to by all participants. In addition to the four competitive sections and for the third year in a row, the Festival will host a special non-competitive section named Franco-Arab Rendez-Vous, dedicated to French and Franco-Arab co-productions. The section is organised in cooperation with the French Institute of Jordan.

During the festival, the Amman Film Industry Days (AFID) will take place, serving as the professional arm of the event. AFID offers masterclasses, workshops, and three pitching platforms, including two for in-development projects and one for films in post-production. Successful candidates will receive both in-kind and cash awards. Juries made up of Arab and international professionals will judge the entries and select the winning films and projects.

As part of the festival program, there is a “First & Latest” section, where a distinguished filmmaker shares their cinematic journey with the audience, discussing the lessons learnt and reflecting on their experience. Moreover, the Festival has recently established an Advisory Board, which has been joined so far by a number of established film professionals, from Jordan and the region, as well as by representatives of the main partnering institutions.

The AIFF is a major cultural event for the residents in Amman as well as for the film industry in the Arab World; it provides a platform for filmmakers to showcase their work to a global audience. The festival has been very successful, attracting thousands of attendees and guests from abroad (be it filmmakers, producers, actors/actresses, critics, journalists, etc.) and has helped raise the profile of Jordan as a cultural hub in the region.

The Festival is made possible with the support of long-standing partners, including but not limited to: Jordan Tourism Board, The Royal Film Commission – Jordan, Abdali Investment and Development, Zain Jordan and Royal Jordanian.

Submissions for films and projects close on 30 April 2023.

For all information visit AIFF’s website: www.aiff.jo or call us at +962792222011
For inquiries about Arab and International competitions please email: info@aiff.jo.
For questions on AFID please email: afid@aiff.jo