Amman: The Amman International Film Festival - Awal Film concluded its seventh edition Monday evening with a grand closing ceremony held at the Amman Citadel, in the presence of Prince Ali Bin Al Hussein and Princess Rym Ali, president and co-founder of the festival, and several government officials. Over nine days, the festival welcomed filmmakers, industry professionals, and audiences from the Arab world and beyond, celebrating cinema, dialogue, and cultural exchange.
According to Jordan News Agency, the seventh edition achieved a record-breaking audience turnout, attracting the highest attendance since the festival's inception. Held under the theme "Beyond the Frame," this year's festival celebrated cinema that transcends the screen, inviting audiences to explore the stories, ideas, and human experiences that continue long after the credits roll. Nada Doumani, director of the AIFF, emphasized the importance of bold storytelling in her closing remarks, expressing hope for future editions filled with narratives that push beyond traditional boundaries.
Before the announcement of the winning films, the historic setting of the Amman Citadel provided a spectacular backdrop for a captivating sand art performance by Omani artist Shayma Al Mughairy, followed by a contemporary interpretation of the traditional dabka by the Majdal Popular Dance Troupe. The closing ceremony culminated in the presentation of the festival's jury and audience awards across its four competition sections, celebrating outstanding achievements in Arab and international cinema.
The winners included notable films such as "A Sad and Beautiful World" directed by Cyril Aris from Lebanon and "The Other Side of the Sun" directed by Tawfik Sabouni from Syria, both of which received multiple accolades. The festival also spotlighted Tunisian cinema, highlighting its influence and diversity within the Arab world. As the curtain falls on another successful edition, the Amman International Film Festival - Awal Film looks ahead to building on this momentum, continuing its mission to celebrate bold cinematic voices and strengthen Jordan's position as a leading destination for cinema in the region.