DIFF’s Open-Air Screenings Return in 2014

The Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF) will once again host its free public film screenings, with a series of screenings at THE BEACH, opposite JBR between December 10th and December 16th starting at 7:30 pm each evening.

On Wednesday, December 10th, guests at THE BEACH, opposite JBR will be able to enjoy the glamour and excitement of DIFF’s opening night red carpet, which will be broadcast live from the Madinat Arena at Madinat Jumeirah.

Screenings are as follows:

Wednesday, December 10th: ‘St. Vincent’ directed by Theodore Melfi

Theodore Melfi brings his much anticipated, heart-warming comedy ‘St Vincent’ to DIFF. ‘St Vincent’ stars Bill Murray as the cantankerous Vincent, a man set in his anti-social ways who is suddenly plagued by the presence of his young neighbor Oliver. Oliver’s mother Maggie, played by Melissa McCarthy, is forced to leave her son with Vincent for a few hours and soon an unusual friendship blossoms that changes both their lives. ‘St. Vincent’ is an unconventional coming of age movie that teaches us you’re never too old to grow up.

Thursday, December 11th: ‘I Am Big Bird’: The Caroll Spinney Story directed by Dave LaMattina and Chad N. Walker

‘I Am Big Bird’: The Caroll Spinney Story is a feature-length documentary about Caroll Spinney, who has been Sesame Street’s Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch since 1969… and at 80 years old, he has no intention of stopping. Think you know everything there is to know about Sesame Street ? You don’t!

 

Friday, December 12th: ‘Meet the Patels’ directed by Geeta V. Patel and Ravi V. Patel

‘Meet the Patels’ is a comedic look at a man’s struggle to find a wife through traditional Indian means. Directed by Indian-American brother and sister duo Geeta V. Patel and Ravi V. Patel, the film highlights cultural and social trials and tribulations, and won the audience award at the Los Angeles Film Festival. ‘Meet the Patels’ is a joyous film exploring family, love and the search for happiness.

Saturday, December 13th: ‘Abood Kandaishan’ directed by Fadel Almheiri

Receiving its world premiere ‘Abood Kandaishan’ is a comedic take on one simple-minded man’s life. Abood is set to be transferred within the company he’s worked 13 years for, but after he finds out about the transfer he asks his friend Sharabatoh for help to stop it. The two become friends after Abood asks for his help, but an accident puts paid to their friendship. This touching look at life feature film is directed by Fadel Almheiri.

Sunday, December 14th: ‘The Crow’s Egg’ directed by M. Manikandan

In ‘The Crow’s Egg’ (‘Kaaka Muttai’), two Indian brothers long to taste their first pizza after seeing a tasty-looking slice on TV. The brothers live with their mother and grandmother in a tiny home in Chennai, with no money to put to their names. Their lives change dramatically after their mother sources a TV set, and they start to yearn for the amazing new world they see portrayed in adverts. Directed by M. Manikandan, this standout film for the 2014 DIFF paints a poignant tale of hope in the face of diversity, poverty and a society resistant to globalization.

Monday, December 15th: ‘Red Army’ directed by Gabe Polsky

Gabe Polsky’s latest film Red Army is a documentary centered on the Soviet ice hockey team, thought by many to be the greatest team ever assembled. This documentary, however, is about much more than a game. Delving deep into the driving forces behind success in Soviet sport, Polsky emerges with a film that transcends politics and ideology and becomes a fascinating and thrilling study in humanity.

Tuesday, December 16th: ‘X+Y’ directed by Morgan Matthews

In the inspirational drama ‘X+Y,’ directed by Morgan Matthews, Nathan, a socially awkward teenage math prodigy struggles to connect with people. Without the ability to understand love or affection, Nathan finds new confidence and new friendships when he lands a spot on the British squad at the International Mathematics Olympiad.

The free screenings will take place at THE BEACH, opposite JBR. For the full schedule and more details, go to www.diff.ae