During a press conference, Mr. Alal stated, “Among these films, which are being showcased for the first time in Algeria and encompassing feature films, shorts, and documentaries, there are 46 films competing in the official competition of the event, in addition to screenings dedicated to Palestinian cinema and women in Mediterranean cinema.”
He added that the Annaba Mediterranean Film Festival, in its fourth edition, returns after a four-year hiatus with a “new vision and strong determination to make the event a platform for discovering talents and a partner in producing films for young filmmakers by accompanying them through various stages of film production.” He further noted that the festival aspires to “transform into a hub for radiance and elevate Algerian film production.”
The fourth edition of the Annaba Mediterranean Film Festival, which was postponed from November 2023 to April 2024 in solidarity with the Palestinian people, will feature a special program titled “Viva – Long Live – Palestine.” This program will showcase seven Palestinian short films to the audience and participants throughout the event, prior to the screening of films in the official competition, with the presence of stars from Palestinian cinema including actor Kamal Al-Basha and director Najwa Najjar.
During the festival’s events, several Algerian and international film stars will be honored, including Algerian filmmaker Merzak Allouache and Italian producer Domenico Procacci, through the screening of the Italian film “Brighter Tomorrow,” produced in 2023 by director Nanni Moretti.
Furthermore, within its specialized training program, the festival will host artistic figures to share their experiences in the field, including Algerian composer Safy Boutella, cinema special effects expert Sami Lamoty, and Italian film producer Daniele Ortolano.
Cinematic figures will also lead workshops for the benefit of 70 young participants registered to attend training courses on various cinema professions.
It was revealed during this press conference that the promotional teaser for the fourth edition of the Annaba Mediterranean Film Festival was unveiled, with the total value of its prizes estimated at $25,000, including $15,000 for feature films and $5,000 each for documentaries and short films.
