Dubai Studio City steps up efforts to boost film-making community in UAE

MFA-Dubai's programmes and industry specific workshops have attracted 120 local and expatriate students so far, testifying its commitment to further Dubai Studio City's holistic objective of providing rigorous fillip to the film and broadcast segments in the UAE and the region.

A US-based collaborative of award winning Oscar and Emmy-nominated American and European film makers, the Manhattan Film Academy is a brainchild of Robert Tutak, who is currently the institute's Programme Director.

The Manhattan Film Academy-Dubai has held successful workshops on filmmaking in Dubai since 2005, and boasts award winning film makers as members of its faculty, including Agnieszka Holland, Slawomir Idziak, Allan Starski, Ira Spiegel, Joe Pennella, and Foster Hirsh.

Jamal Al Sharif, Executive Director, Dubai Studio City said:

"Dubai Studio City strives to participate in initiatives that help strengthen the film industry in Dubai and the region. MFA-Dubai has brought world class industry experts to the emirate, enriching our students with their rich expertise and learning. We look forward to establishing a greater synergy with MFA-Dubai through their permanent facility at Dubai Studio City".

Since 2007, Dubai Studio City has extended consistent support to the Manhattan Film Academy-Dubai.

The media cluster's mission to provide world class infrastructure and services to boost the growth of the film, TV, radio production, post-production and broadcast industries in the region is in line with MFA's aim to shape competent UAE nationals and expatriates into world class film makers.

Salman Chaudhry, Managing Director, MFA-Dubai, said: "Film industry in Dubai is destined for a great future and the Manhattan Film Academy is an instrument through which the knowledge, expertise, and techniques of Hollywood can be transferred into our local talent pool of aspiring film makers.

"Backed by excellent support from the government and the private sector, as well as the overwhelming student response, the day we establish a permanent film academy at Dubai Studio City is not too far off".

Tarek Marwan Rahbani, student of the MFA- Film Production programme, said: "MFA offers an excellent experience, one that should not be missed by those intent on pursuing a career in filmmaking. With the guidance of noted filmmaking stalwarts and the support of my colleagues and peers, I am confident of succeeding as a competent professional".

MFA-Dubai is currently accepting applications for the film making programme starting September 2008 from local, regional and international students.

MFA-Dubai also offers specialized short courses on screen writing, cinematography, location sound, video and sound editing, acting, and directing.

The International Media Production Zone, a member of TECOM Investments, has also supported MFA-Dubai, and is a sponsor of the latest MFA workshop, along with Dubai Cultural and Art Authority (previously called Dubai Cultural Council), Sony Professional Solutions Middle East and Arab Business Machine Ltd (ABM), Kodak, Film Quip and Film Works.

Launched in February 2005, Dubai Studio City aims to serve as an enabling catalyst for local film production, providing freelancers, university graduates and aspiring film makers an opportunity to pursue a career in the region's cinema industry.