Tribeca forged its alliance with Doha, Qatar when the daughter of Qatar’s ruler undertook an internship with the festival founders in New York.
Next weekend, stars including Robert De Niro will make their way down the red carpet at this landmark film festival.
The festival will last for three days and will feature 30 films, including:
- “Bright Star” – a UK/Australian co-production written and directed by Jane Campion. The movie chronicles the last years of poet John Keats. The film attempts to explore the distinction between passion and sex. Abbie Cornish plays Keat’s love interest.
- “Capitalism: A Love Story” – directed by Michael Moore. Moore explores the failure of capitalism, in his usual witty, satirical way.
- “A Serious Man” – directed and written by the Coen brothers. The unjustness of life is explored, as well-meaning Larry Gopnick is confronted by obstacles at every turn. The movie features renowned actors from Yiddish theatre.
Due to the current financial crisis in the US, US Studios are keen to attract financing at the festival. Last year, Abu Dhabi based ‘Imagenation’ was formed with $1 billion in capital for film and other entertainment projects.
The Middle East is currently undergoing somewhat of a cultural transformation. Abu Dhabi intends to open branches of the Louvre and the Guggenheim. Doha’s Museum of Islamic Art opened last fall.
However, there is some skepticism as to whether the Gulf sheiks are willing to allow artists the freedom to express themselves without restraint. There is a view at the moment that art is encouraged as long as it does not offend the status quo. No amount of money and resources will remedy this situation.
Gene Goodsell is an entertainment agent and lawyer. He focuses on film financing, packaging and aspects of production. He has numerous US and Australian clients. Gene has a business degree, law degree with honours and is currently studying for his Master of Laws. He is a member of the Law Society of New South Wales and a member of the Beverly Hills Bar Association.