Seats with stories

TDT | Manama

Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

The Bahrain Film Festival has unveiled a bold new visual identity as it prepares for its fifth edition, to be held from October 30 to November 4 this year. Organised by the Bahrain Cinema Club, the festival’s updated look draws on themes of memory and cinematic experience, with a tagline that reads ‘Short Films … Great Stories.’

Officials said the revamped identity reflects the essence of cinema through symbols like the movie seat, representing the viewer’s perspective, and the moment the screen lights up, bringing stories to life. The design philosophy seeks to evoke emotional connection, imagination, and cultural memory in the minds of festivalgoers.

Call for Entries

The organising committee also announced the opening of submissions for this year’s competition, with entries accepted until August 31. Eligible films must be under 30 minutes, subtitled in either English or Arabic depending on the language of the film, and completed after January 1, 2024.

Submissions are open in five categories: Short Film Competition for Bahraini Filmmakers, General Short Film Competition, Student Films, Animation Films, and Documentaries.

Regional Ambitions

The festival, which in its previous edition attracted 481 entries from 23 Arab countries, is gaining ground as a platform for regional filmmakers. The new identity signals a broader vision for the future, with organisers promising workshops, lectures, and development opportunities to enrich Arab cinema and support emerging talent.

This year’s edition is supported by the National Communication Centre and the Isa Cultural Centre. Final screening dates and venues are expected to be announced closer to the festival.