The Doha Film Festival (DFF) is teaming with Fipresci, the international film critics federation, to establish a jury at the upcoming edition taking place from November 19–27 in Qatar.
The move is part of a new partnership between Fipresci and the festival’s parent organisation, the Doha Film Institute (DFI).
The Fipresci DFF jury will comprise three film critics, who will judge films presented in the festival’s international feature film competition.
The jury will present the Fipresci prize to the film it considers the most significant achievement in the competition. Details on the jury composition and selection will be announced at a later date.
Fipresci juries operate at most of the world’s top film festivals, from Cannes to Berlin, Venice and San Sebastian. This year, Fipresci has also expanded its jury presence to festivals including Sundance, Sitges, Bucheon and Ji.hlava.
“At a moment when some of the most dynamic developments in contemporary cinema are emerging beyond its traditional centres, Fipresci considers this exchange an essential part of its international mission,” said Fipresci president Ahmed Shawky. ”Establishing a jury in Doha further strengthens this network and reflects the Federation’s continuing commitment to ensuring that film criticism remains genuinely international in its perspectives and encounters.”
Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, CEO of Doha Film Institute and festival director of Doha Film Festival, said: “Independent cinema thrives when bold filmmakers have the freedom to tell the stories they believe in, and when there are critics willing to champion, question and preserve those voices.
”Film criticism is an essential part of the ecosystem that keeps independent cinema vibrant, ensuring that important films are not only seen, but understood, discussed and carried forward. We are delighted to welcome Fipresci to Doha and to create a space where critics and filmmakers can engage across cultures, discover new voices and contribute to a richer global conversation around cinema.”
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