Doha Tribeca Film Festival salutes Algerian cinema with special tribute of post-colonial era films

The special screening of four films that capture the frustrations, resilience and resounding hope of Algeria's people in the post-colonial era also coincides with the 50th anniversary of Algeria's independence.

Since independence, Algeria has witnessed several powerful cinematic works that reflect the nation's struggles to come to terms with the fall-out of the violent revolution. Four such films, Rome Rather Than You (Roma Wa La N'touma) directed by Tariq Teguia Winds of the Aures (Le Vent des Aurès) by Mohammed Lakhdar-Hamina; Omar Gatlato by Merzak Allouache; and Nouba of the Women of Mont Chenoua (La Nouba des Femmes du Mont-Chenoua) by Assia Djeber are part of DTFF's tribute. Critically celebrated classic, The Battle of Algiers by the late Italian filmmaker Gillo Pontecorvo will screen as part of the complimentary community screenings at the Sony Open Air Cinema on the Katara Esplanade.

DTFF will be also screening Algerian films in its competition section including The Repentant (Le Repenti ) by Merzak Allouache; Fidaï by Damien Ounouri and Goodbye Morocco by Nadir Moknèche and the film set in Algeria O My Body! (Ô Mon Corps!) by Laurent Aït Benalla. The tribute culminates with a live performance by renowned Algerian jazz musician Safy Boutella at the official Awards ceremony on November 22, who will perform a special tribute to the nation. The tribute showcase has been organised with support from Agence Algérienne pour le Rayonnement Culturel.

His Excellency Mr Issa Bin Mohammed Al-Mohannadi, DTFF Vice Chair, said: "Algeria's cinematic history is indeed the reflection of the country's post-independence era, and a creative expression of the people's hopes and aspirations. As Algeria celebrates its 50th anniversary of independence, we are honoured to present a special showcase of the country's powerful films - both from the past and the present - thus offering visitors to the festival a finer understanding of the country's cinematic history and evolution."

In addition, Katara Art Centre, in support of the Festival and the Algerian tribute is hosting an Algerian film poster exhibition along with an Algerian short films presentation from November 15 to December 15.

This year, DTFF provides audiences a comprehensive and enriching cultural experience with new screening venues in Doha. Indoor and outdoor screenings will take place at Katara Cultural Village, Museum of Islamic Arts (MIA), and Souq Waqif.

The fourth edition of the Festival will open with Mira Nair's critically acclaimed The Reluctant Fundamentalist, in addition to showcasing an internationally diverse programme of over 50 films in distinct themed segments. Public participation will be central with the Festival hosting an array of large community events, including Family Day, as well as panel discussions, networking events and educational filmmaking programmes including Doha Talks and Doha Projects.