Discussions on gender equality in the film industry have gained increasing momentum recently. The World of Women’s Cinema – WOW Film Fair Middle East, now in its 7th year in Dubai, will be part of the programme of the Women in Leadership Economic Forum (WIL) being held at the Address Sky View Hotel Dubai on 28 and 29 October.

WOW Film Fair Middle East is the first women’s short film fair that promotes and awards the talents of women directors, producers, writers, editors and cinematographers in the film industry internationally. During the event, exclusive screenings featuring a collection of short award-winning films will be on display. Most of the winning films from 2019 are based around relationships and the feminine identity.

Sophie Le Ray, CEO of Naseba, said, “Cinema is a powerful medium with the power to reflect and shape culture. We need more women in the film industry and to increase female worldviews through documentaries and featured films. By collaborating with WOW Film Fair Middle East, our goal is to spark conversations that matter about gender stereotyping in the industry, showcase and celebrate some of the exceptional work done by both female and male filmmakers to address the gender divide.”

Founder of WOW Film Festival and TV Presenter, Hermoine Macura-Noble explains why they are partnering with WIL 2019. “It is an event that offers high performing men and women to ‘see the world through the eyes of women.’ WIL 2019 is also a great platform for men and women in the arts to build their network and explore further opportunities to share their work with the world. Our 2019 film winners were chosen from over 300 entries and feature films that focus on women or are about women."

List of Films to be screened at WIL Economic Forum:

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LIGHTNING

Duration: 18 minutes

Director: Cristina Isoli, UK

A love story about a deaf girl and a new guy in town who pursues her romantically.

DRIVING MS. SAUDI

Duration: 2 minutes.

Director: Walid Chaya

A film about a mother and son and how he encourages her to drive.

MY HEART, HER BODY

Duration: 6 minutes.

Director: Fatma Alhameli, UAE

A film about the complications of love in the GCC.

CRUSH HOUR

Duration: 7 minutes.

Director: Natalie Malla, UK