Northwestern University in Qatar’s (NU-Q) student-run production house Studio 20Q showcased seven films at its annual premiere. 

This event served as a platform for both students and alumni producers to showcase their cinematic works to local filmmakers and the NU-Q community, alongside an exhibition of behind-the-scenes film set materials and posters.

The narratives short movies premiered on March 8 ranged from portraying a post-apocalyptic Arab village where kindness is outlawed to depicting the resilient defiance of women confronting entrenched misogyny in society and migrant workers grappling with financial woes.

Farima Amir, director of “Muntazir,” drew inspiration from her grandmother’s stories to shed light on the struggles of those left behind by loved ones seeking a better future.

“There are a lot of people who leave their homes and families behind for a better future,” she said. “So, I wanted to show a glimpse into the life of the other side of the people who are left behind and how they deal with it in Muntazir.”

Ahmad Al-Mushaddani, co-producer of the film “Bint Al-Sayyad,” expressed gratitude for the level of support and teamwork that brought his vision to life. He credited the film’s success to the dedication of the team, which comprised 70 crew members, stating that “it would have never been what it is without them.”

Abdullah Imran Qureshi, director of the film “Asliyat,” discussed his creative approach to integrating art forms such as animation and visual effects (VFX).

“I wanted to emphasize the invisibility of migrant workers in our society, so I opted for animations that rendered them silhouettes,” he explained. “However, it posed a challenge as I began everything in studios and a significant portion of the film relied on sorting green screen.”

In addressing future filmmakers, Imran emphasized the possibilities in storytelling, encouraging students with the message, “Anything is possible; there’s always a way to tell a story.”

The films were funded through three grant categories: “Dreamer” for those with limited filmmaking experience but a strong desire to experiment, “Enthusiast” for previous Studio 20Q awardees, and “Maestro” for experienced filmmakers. 

These grants cater to a variety of film genres, each lasting between 10 to 15 minutes. 

Dana J. Atrach, the faculty advisor for this year’s Studio 20Q board, emphasized the sense of community fostered by Northwestern and Studio 20Q.

“This night is the product of a community coming together to really support each other and work together,” she said.

Here is a list of all the films that premiered:

Muntazir by Farina Amir and Moom Thahinah

K Khais? by Paribesh Sitoula and Samip Khulal

Lehrein by Fatima Ramzan, Fatima Dauleh and Noora Al Henzab

Bint Al-Sayyad by Yazid Taki, Khalifa Al-Kuwari, Ahmad Al-Mushaddani, and Karam Sleiman

Asliyat by Abdullah Imran and Mohammed Al-Khulaifi

Ghar by Fariha Ahmed and Noor Ul Ain

Musafir by Neeha Rashid and Nadia Al Hinai.