MADE IN QATAR Qatari films showcased at the Liverpool Arab Arts Festival As part of the UK Qatar 2013 Year of Culture, the ‘Made in Qatar’ film programme will premiere at the Liverpool Arab Arts Festival on Saturday 15 June. Held at the Bluecoat Museum, the programme will feature a number of short films by young Qatari filmmakers which will be shown continuously from 12pm to 6pm. Curated by the Doha Film Institute, the films follow the stories of Qatari nationals and those who call Qatar home, examining social issues such as relationships with communities, friends and partners. A highlight of the showcase is Al Muqanaa, which provides an intimate portrait of well-known and highly recognised Doha resident Ahmed Al-Jaber, the retired policeman and self-confessed artist. The film gives a name to the mustachioed face that locals had known as ‘the man with the crazy cars’ due to his collection of intricately decorated cars and motorbikes which are adorned with various items of Arab bling. This short film tells his story, his relationship with the community and reveals Al-Jaber's creative vision for the future of Qatar. An image from this film has been provided with this release. Martin Hope, Director of the British Council in Qatar said, “The ‘Made in Qatar’ film programme provides people with a fascinating snap shot of Qatari life and culture. Qatar UK 2013 Year of Culture aims to cultivate mutual recognition, understanding and appreciation of Qatari and British cultures through events like this one that both entertain and educate. The Year also celebrates the strong existing ties between the two countries and given Liverpool’s deep relations with the Arab world it makes it the perfect location for the UK premier of the showcase.” The ‘Made in Qatar’ programme is part of the Qatar UK 2013 Year of Culture which aims to increase engagement between the people of both countries in the spirit of innovation, openness and learning. To find out more about the ‘Made in Qatar’ film programme please visit www.qataruk2013.com - ILQ News -

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