Algiers – The third edition of the International Documentary Film Festival “Sidi M’hamed Ben Ouda” will take place from December 11 to 14 in Relizane, Algeria, with the participation of 17 countries, including Oman as the guest of honor, according to the organizers’ announcement on Tuesday in Algiers.
During a press conference, Abdelkader Wadih, the festival commissioner and president of the organizing association “El-Zeitouna,” described the event as a “cinematic gathering dedicated to documentary films.”
Abdelraouf Ben Ahmed, the festival’s artistic director, highlighted that this edition is devoted entirely to Palestine, adding that participating countries represent Africa, Europe, and Asia, including Italy, Egypt, Tunisia, Libya, Pakistan, Portugal, Russia, and Qatar.
Film Competition and Screening Categories
The festival will host competitions for both long and short documentaries, alongside the “Cinerama” category, which features films screened outside the competition.
Entries in the competitive categories will be evaluated by a jury chaired by Algerian filmmaker Issa Ben Said, who will present the “Alfa” Gold, Silver, and Bronze awards, as well as a special jury prize recognizing exceptional thematic treatment.
Featured Films in the Competition
Among the 12 long documentaries vying for awards are:
- “Red Africa” (Russia-Portugal) by Alexander Markov
- “Death of a City” by João Rosas (Portugal)
- “Desert Rock Singer” by Sarah Nacer (Algeria)
- “Behind the Door” by Karin De Viller and Mario Brenta (Italy)
The short documentary category will feature 11 films, including:
- “From Ground Zero” by Mohamed Ashraf Shaaban (Egypt)
- “White Algeria” by Hakim Mohammedi (Algeria)
Highlights Outside the Competition
In the non-competitive category for long documentaries, the festival will host the world premiere of “Lisca Bianca” by Giuseppe Gallant, the commissioner announced.
Additional Festival Activities
The festival program will include panel discussions, workshops, and tributes, notably honoring filmmaker, producer, and broadcaster Djamel Eddine Hazourli for his contributions to Algerian cinema.
For further details, visit DZWATCH.DZ.
Author: nor-eleslam
*International documentary festival, Relizane, Sidi M’hamed Ben Ouda, Palestine tribute, Algerian cinema
