MFA-Dubai says lights, camera, action
The region's next generation of filmmakers is being offered another chance to learn from the masters in programmes run by Dubai Studio City and the Manhattan Film Academy-Dubai (MFA-Dubai).
MFA-Dubai is currently accepting applications for the filmmaking programme starting September 2008 from local, regional and international students.
Tapping in to local talent, the academy is aggressively promoting its resources and providing a fertile platform to aspiring filmmakers. Since its inception three years ago, MFA-Dubai's programmes and industry specific workshops have attracted 120 local and expatriate students, testifying to its commitment to further Dubai Studio City's objective of providing rigorous fillip to the film and broadcast industry in the UAE and the broader region.
Manhattan Film Academy, brainchild of Robert Tutak, is a New York City-based group of internationally renowned and award-winning American and European filmmakers, including winners and nominees of Academy Award (Oscars), European Film Award, British Academy of Film and Television Arts, Golden Globe and Emmy.
Established in 2002, MFA offers opportunities to learn first-hand from highly accomplished professional writers, directors, cinematographers, and editors through a series of intensive hands-on film production workshops. The expertise, networking power and access to the industry of MFA faculty are unprecedented.
The Manhattan Film Academy-Dubai has held successful workshops on filmmaking in Dubai since 2005, and boasts award-winning filmmakers among its faculty, including: Agnieszka Holland, Slawomir Idziak, Allan Starski, Ira Spiegel, Joe Pennella and Foster Hirsh.
MFA-Dubai also offers specialised short courses on screen writing, cinematography, location sound, video and sound editing, acting, and directing.
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."
Dubai Studio City supports the MFA-Dubai, with the intention of shaping talented UAE nationals and expatriates into world-class filmmakers.
Salman Chaudhry, managing director, MFA-Dubai, said: "The film industry in Dubai is destined for a great future and the MFA is an instrument through which the knowledge, expertise, and techniques of Hollywood can be transferred into our local talent pool of aspiring filmmakers.
"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."
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 the Dubai Cultural and Art Authority (previously called Dubai Cultural Council), Sony Professional Solutions Middle East and Arab Business Machine (ABM), Kodak, Film Quip and Film Works.
Dubai Studio City aims to serve as an enabling catalyst for local film production, providing freelancers, university graduates and aspiring filmmakers an opportunity to pursue a career in the region's cinema industry.
Dubai Studio City, launched in February 2005, offers a complete technical and community infrastructure catering to the film, TV, radio production and broadcast industries.
Built on an area of more than 20 million square foot, DSC aims to attract production and broadcast companies, as well as a wide range of support services, including providers for animation, dubbing, makeup, costume design, set design and construction, casting, telnet agencies, telecine, and laboratory facilities.
DSC will eventually feature pre-built studios, sound stages, workshops, backlots and stage areas, post-production studios, and satellite communication services. The cluster will also house film and television academies, commercial offices, entertainment and retail spaces, and hotels and residential facilities to accommodate crews and cast. And DSC's Location Approval Services (LAS) provides a single window for applying for shooting permits.
The faculty
MFA faculty have taught and lectured at the most prestigious film programmes in the US, including: USC, UCLA, the American Film Institute, Columbia University, New York University, School of Visual Arts, New School University, Pratt Institute, City College, Brooklyn College and film academies and programmes around the world, including the UK, France, Germany, Ireland, Denmark, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Poland, and Australia.