Al Jazeera Film Festival to begin on April 21 in Doha

In line with Al Jazeera's unique editorial vision of putting the human being at the center of the news agenda and giving voice to the voiceless, the Al Jazeera International Film Festival will showcase films that tell profound human stories capable of increasing understanding between communities and cultures.

The opening film, entitled, The Flowers of Cole, a powerfully emotional work from mainland China, will begin after the opening ceremony at 7:00pm.

Over 89 short, medium and full-length films will be screened at the Festival, all competing for the prestigious Al Jazeera Gold Award in their given category, which will be presented at the closing ceremony on 24 April at 7:00pm.

The international jury, comprised of world-renowned filmmakers, will decide which films receive the recognition and monetary awards. Other films in each category will be nominated for a Jury Award, another prestigious recognition.

To promote young filmmakers and to provide them with a unique global platform, Al Jazeera has launched the New Horizon Award, open to University students.

11 films from around the world will compete in this category, and two awards will be given to the best films.

For the first time, Al Jazeera will host a 'Film Souq' at the Festival, providing an outlet for filmmakers to exchange ideas and sell their products to the international delegates attending the event.

A book fair and a series of panel discussions on 22 and 23 April, including talks following the film, Forbidden Lies, which outlines the popular portrayal of Arab society in the Western media and I Was There, which provides detailed and emotional accounts of the attacks of 11 September 2001, complete the activities available at the Festival.

The Festival is open to the general public.