The Korean Cultural Center in the UAE has announced the launch of “Creative Film Nights,” a monthly film screening series, and a set of filmmaking workshops in collaboration with Creative Lab, a training program for young people interested in the creative industry. The event, which will begin on March 20, aims to promote cultural exchanges between Korea and the UAE. The series will showcase curated Korean films and short films, Image Nation features, and Arab Film Studio shorts, with a new theme each month.
The March edition of Creative Film Nights is dedicated to women and their contributions to arts and contemporary society, commemorating International Women’s Day. The event will kick off with the screening of the award-winning Korean film “The Monologue” directed by Kim Bo-young, on March 20. The film follows the story of a middle-aged actress named Ji-yeon who had given up her acting career for marriage and motherhood. After a long hiatus, she receives an unexpected call from a prestigious film director who invites her to audition for a role in his new film. The film explores themes such as aging, ambition, and the challenges of balancing career and family life. It also highlights the struggles faced by women in the entertainment industry and the societal expectations placed upon them. The Monologue has been screened at various film festivals, including the 2018 Busan International Film Festival and the 2019 Clermont-Ferrand International Short Film Festival.
The Arab Film Studio short documentary titled “The Girl with The Accent,” directed by Nadia Durry, will also be screened on March 20. The film is a story about an Ethiopian woman’s embrace of her identity through the color of her skin, exploring topics of identity and belonging that many people have struggled with in this ever-expanding world. The Girl with the Accent has been screened at festivals around the world and is the winner of Best International Short Documentary at the 20th Garden State Film Festival.
The screenings will take place from 6 to 7.30 pm, and tickets can be purchased on the Korean Cultural Center website. Creative Film Nights aim to provide a platform for cultural exchange and appreciation between Korea and the UAE, showcasing the best of Korean and Arab cinema while providing opportunities for aspiring filmmakers to learn from industry professionals. It is an exciting initiative that brings together film enthusiasts and creators in a celebration of creativity and diversity.