Dubai: Following the success of the 6th Edition of META Cinema Forum, a cinematic extravaganza that unfolded from 7th to 8th November, the celebration continued with exclusive film screenings at City Centre Deira from 9th to 12th November and a special tour of the Soundstage at Dubai Studio City.City Centre Deira, a key sponsor, transformed into a cinematic haven above Food Central. Attendees reveled in the comfort of bean bags while enjoying a curated selection of films not yet available to the general public. From the animated adventure "3 Little Kungpoo Goats" to the intense forest drama "Territory," the screenings catered to diverse tastes.Celebrating the Diwali weekend, the lineup included the courtroom thriller "A Holy Conspiracy," the Kannada drama "Koli Esru," and the gripping Malayalam film "Nishiddho," offering attendees a unique blend of entertainment and celebration, along with Q&A sessions with cast and crew.On Friday 10th November Dubai Studio City offered an exclusive "Tour of Soundstage" experience. Over 50 filmmakers and enthusiasts explored the state-of-the-art facilities at Soundstage, Dubai Studio City. The tour unveiled details of the facilities, benefits, and rebates available for filmmakers, solidifying Dubai Studio City's commitment to fostering creativity and innovation in the film industry.Leila Masinaei, META Cinema Forum Director and Managing Partner of Great Minds Group, expressed gratitude to the sponsors for their invaluable support in creating a memorable cinematic experience.The META Cinema Forum, known for its dedication to emerging markets, successfully blended conferences, exclusive screenings, and sponsor activations, making it a must-attend event for cinema enthusiasts and industry professionals alike.

Dubai: VOX Cinemas, the dedicated cinema arm of Majid Al Futtaim, is excited to announce that Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour film will grace its big screens across the UAE starting from 03 November. Advance tickets are now available for online booking at voxcinemas.com and the VOX Cinemas app.Now Swifties in the UAE don’t have to go too far to experience a breathtaking cinematic view of the history-making tour which will be available in VOX Cinemas’ Standard auditoriums and four of its signature concepts.THEATRE (AED 198.9) and GOLD (AED 198.9) for a luxurious in-cinema dining experienceIMAX® (AED 150) and MAX (AED 150) for a fully immersive experience with larger-than-life visuals and pitch-perfect soundStandard Ticket for One (AED 130)Standard Tickets for Couples (AED 195)Standard Tickets for a Family of Four (AED 350)To complement the once-in-a-lifetime cultural phenomenon, VOX Cinemas will be serving Taylor-inspired F&B items at the Candy Bar.Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour film is based on the pop sensation’s record-breaking stadium tour which kicked off in March. Described as a journey through all of Swift’s musical eras, starting from her country music roots 17 years ago to achieving pop legend status, Taylor Swift: Eras Tour film is set to become the highest-grossing concert film of all time.Experience the magic of Taylor Swift on the big screen! The Eras Tour film session run every weekend (03-05, 09-12, 16-19 and 23-26 November) with 15 shows and one prime showtime (6:00-8:00 p.m.) per day. For more information or to make a booking visit voxcinemas.com and VOX Cinemas App.

Dubai: A new wax figure is on the way to Madame Tussauds Dubai later this year, and this news is a red-carpet showstopper! Madame Tussauds Dubai, the world-famous wax attraction, is thrilled to announce the upcoming reveal of the highly anticipated wax figure of Indian cinema’s beloved icon, Allu Arjun.The six-time Filmfare Award winner, three-time Nandi Award winner and recently National Award winner; the first Telugu Actor in 69 years to win this award will be revealing his wax figure at an event at Madame Tussauds Dubai later this year, where the overwhelmingly popular actor will meet his likeness face to face!On getting the news that he had been selected for a wax figure at Madame Tussauds Dubai, Allu Arjun said, “I visited Madame Tussauds in Los Angeles and was blown away by the experience! I can’t believe that now I’ll have a wax figure, I never would have believed it!”Sanaz Kollsrud, General Manager of Madame Tussauds Dubai said,” Allu Arjun is without a doubt the biggest actor from the south of India. What better way to mark his incredible success than by giving the fans what they want – his first ever wax figure! Our artists have been working with Allu on his likeness and we can’t wait to unveil the figure later this year!”Andre Timmins, Director of IIFA (International Film Academy) said, “IIFA as a brand is all about taking Indian Cinema to the world and we are so proud of the addition to this journey we have shared with Madame Tussauds to bring the Indian Cinema stars closer to the fans. As we embark on getting ready to relaunch IIFA Utsavam – A celebration of South Indian Cinema, it is exciting to have one of the biggest and most respected Superstars of the millennium from this industry Allu Arjun, deservedly be the forthcoming star addition to Madame Tussauds Dubai.This legendary Indian actor is known as the ‘King of Dance’ and hails from the south of India. His figure will wear an iconic red jacket which he wore in the iconic boardroom dance scene of his movie Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo. Known for his dynamic performances and unparalleled dance moves, Allu Arjun has captured the hearts of millions of fans across the world, making him the perfect addition to the iconic Madame Tussauds Museum.A ’sitting’, that is a meeting between the celebrity and the artists at Madame Tussauds, took place in Dubai earlier this year. Over 200 measurements were taken, being the normal, detailed process needed to create one of the amazing wax figures.The figure will be placed in the beautiful and interactive Bollywood Zone inside the attraction located on Bluewaters.Follow Madame Tussauds Dubai on social media to keep up to date with the latest news and updates in this exciting reveal!

Advanced Media has announced the launch of the Arabic edition of CINESeason in Riyadh. This two-day event, designed to empower aspiring filmmakers and content creators, will take place on October 6th and 7th, 2023, setting the stage for an immersive learning experience in cinematic filmmaking and digital cinema technology.In 2020, Advanced Media Trading introduced CINE, a biannual digital cinema community event that quickly became a focal point for filmmakers, enthusiasts, and industry experts in the GCC and beyond. CINE has since been an invaluable space for professionals and cinephiles to come together, discuss the latest technologies, trends, and solutions in digital cinema, and showcase their skills and creations.Building on its reputation as the leading distributor of video, photo, broadcast, and cinema equipment, Advanced Media is furthering its commitment to the development and education of the media and film community. The launch of the Arabic edition of CINESeason underscores the company's dedication to organizing training workshops, seminars, and community events that inform and familiarize consumers with new equipment and cutting-edge technological advances.CINESeason, set to be held at a prestigious venue in Riyadh, is a comprehensive two-day event that brings together the best and brightest in the world of digital cinema. Participants will have the unique opportunity to engage with industry experts, share their knowledge, and explore the latest developments in digital cinema, broadcast, and video. This event will serve as a prelude to the 4th edition of the Riyadh Season, making it an essential part of the city's cultural calendar.The event's workshops are carefully curated to cater to a wide range of interests and skill levels. Covering topics such as video acquisition, lighting for film and TV drama, workflow, and post-production, the workshops offer a hands-on and interactive learning experience. Participants will have access to top-of-the-line equipment from renowned brands like RED, Sony Professional Solutions, Zeiss, Angenieux, Astera light, DJI, Tokina, and more, all within specially designed sets that enhance the learning experience.Workshop highlights include:  "Video Acquisition for Cinema" and "Understanding Your Optics: Shooting in 8K and Beyond" conducted by Mr. Fouad Aoun, a cinematography expert with over a decade of experience.  "Workflow and Post," taught by Mr. Mostafa Salah, a seasoned professional with a decade of experience in media and editing.  "Lighting for Film & TV Drama" by the renowned Egyptian Director of Photography, Ayman Abou el Makarem, offering invaluable insights into creating cinematic visuals, enhancing storytelling, and staying versatile and adaptable.Ultimately, all four workshops will provide participants with a platform to showcase their creativity. Collaborating on projects guided by experienced instructors, attendees will have the chance to put their newfound skills into practice, create compelling content, and present their work to their peers and industry professionals.Advanced Media's CINESeason workshops aim to empower participants to excel in their craft and take their filmmaking skills to new heights. By offering a comprehensive program that covers various aspects of cinematic filmmaking, providing hands-on experience with cutting-edge equipment, and fostering a collaborative and supportive environment, CINESeason is set to be an event like no other in the world of digital cinema.

Afternoons just got more fun! Roxy Cinemas invites young movie buffs to the new After School Club – an exciting after-school experience dedicated to kids and teens.  Playing the latest and greatest family, animation, and adventure movies, specially curated for kids of all ages, movie fans and their parents can watch their favorite characters come to life while enjoying UNLIMITED popcorn and a regular juice or soda for just AED 59.The After School Club starts right after school from Monday to Friday. For parents who prefer not to join in on the movie fun, can conveniently drop off their little ones at the ultimate after-school hangout spot.Available in Silver and Gold experience, the After School Club at Roxy Cinemas in Dubai Hills Mall, City Walk, The Beach, and Al Khawaneej Walk locations from 3:30pm to 5:30pm.Hop on board for an epic after-school adventure at Roxy Cinemas. It's non-stop fun, excitement and unlimited popcorn.This week’s line-up includes Gran Turismo, The Adventures of Jurassic Pet 2 and Cats in the Museum. Visit https://www.theroxycinemas.com/events-cinemas/after-school-club or via the Roxy Cinemas app to check out the latest movies playing.Follow the Roxy Cinema’s social media channels for the latest updates:Instagram: @TheROXYCinemasFacebook: @TheROXYCinemasBottom of FormTerms & ConditionsThe offer is valid from Mondays to Fridays onlyThe offer is valid for select movies from 3.30 to 5.30pmThe same price applies to the guardian – and yes, they are also eligible to get unlimited popcornNot available at Roxy Cinemas in BoxparkPopcorn can be refilled at the concession counters

VOX Cinemas, in collaboration with Majid Al Futtaim, has announced the grand reopening of the VOX Cineco multiplex with 20 dazzling screens, situated within the iconic City Centre Bahrain, a premier retail and leisure destination in the region.Film enthusiasts in Bahrain are in for an unparalleled cinematic adventure as the Kingdom welcomes the enhanced and modernized VOX Cineco City Centre. This state-of-the-art cinematic hub has been meticulously designed to elevate the movie-watching experience, offering a seamlessly optimized journey for every visitor.Boasting an impressive array of features, VOX Cineco presents 20 state-of-the-art screens, including premium auditoriums fitted with luxurious leather seats, ensuring utmost comfort. The crown jewel of the cinema experience lies in its colossal 18-meter wide and 10-meter high screen, coupled with dual projectors for truly mesmerizing visuals. The auditory realm is equally enthralling, thanks to a world-class sound system that promises heart-pounding audio.VOX Cinemas has revolutionized the concept of entertainment, catering to both film aficionados and food connoisseurs. The fusion of cinematic magic with gastronomic delight awaits patrons, who can indulge in fine dining within the exclusive lounge or savor delectable dishes delivered right to their seats via the innovative in-theatre waiter service.A tantalizing addition to the experience is the newly inaugurated Candy Bar, nestled within the revamped cinema foyer. This delightful haven offers an array of culinary pleasures, including popcorn, burgers, hotdogs, pizzas, and nachos, all designed to enhance the movie experience.Anmar AlQurashi, Managing Director - Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, Majid Al Futtaim Entertainment, said: "The reopening of VOX Cinemas City Centre Bahrain reaffirms our commitment to elevating the movie-going experience." Join us on this remarkable journey of cinematic excellence, as VOX Cinemas redefines entertainment in Bahrain.

In the latest push to foster an organic movie industry in the kingdom, the Saudi Film Commission has partnered with the MBC Group to hone local talent and create new opportunities for them through grassroot initiatives.The memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between the two entities will create training and employment opportunities for Saudi talent in TV shows and films that MBC will produce, while also facilitating their production shoots in the country.Over the past few years, Saudi Arabia has been actively pushing the country’s film industry into the spotlight with the announcement of high-profile partnerships and funds to attract key international players.At the 2023 Cannes Film Festival in May, Saudi Arabia’s Cultural Development Fund announced two separate grants that would collectively spend $180 million in developing the local film industry, while also fostering an environment that appeals to cash-rich Hollywood production houses.Separately, the Saudi Film Commission launched Daw last year on the sidelines of the country’s the Red Sea International Film Festival, an initiative aimed at supporting local filmmakers and creating quality local productions. Daw also offers financial grants for Saudi-based production companies looking to produce short films or feature films in the kingdom. Aside from funding, Saudi Arabia also offers a tax rebate on film shoots, similar to the ones offered by Dubai and Abu Dhabi, which provides up to a 40% cash back incentive for productions that recruit crew and talent from the kingdom, while also promoting the cultural and geographical landscape of the country.In the recent past, movies such as Gerard Butler’s Kandahar, along with Cherry, directed by Anthony and Joe Russo, have been shot in AlUla. NEOM has also proved itself popular with film units, with Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan shooting for him upcoming project Dunki at the destination, along with Rupert Wyatt who filmed Desert Warrior there with Anthony Mackie

Dubai: NEOM, Saudi Arabia‘Hobal’, the upcoming Saudi feature film from acclaimed director Abdulaziz Alshlahei (The Tambour of Retribution, Zero Distance) will head to shoot in NEOM in northwest Saudi Arabia this September at Bajdah Studios and its sprawling epic landscapes.‘Hobal’ focuses on a Saudi family living in isolation in the desert in the early 1990s. Following their grandfather's strict instructions, they are not allowed to leave the desert. However, a series of events shakes the family's foundation and pits them against a struggle between life and death. The film stars Mohammed Altoyan and Mishal Almutairi, along with an all-Saudi cast.‘Hobal’ is the third feature from locally acclaimed director Abdulaziz Alshlahei, with his second feature film, Saudi period drama The Tambour of Retribution, securing two awards at the Cairo Film Festival and selected as the Saudi Arabian entry for Best International Feature Film at the 94th Academy Awards in 2022.The film’s scriptwriter, Mufarrej Al-Majfel, was one of the winners and recipient of a fund award at the Saudi Film Commission’s Daw Film Competition, an initiative launched by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Culture in September 2019 to support Saudi film production and champion the next generation of filmmakers by establishing a sustainable funding program to bring Saudi content to the screen and to wider audiences.The film will benefit from production support provided by NEOM who are assisting with crew, location scouting, logistics, and on-the-ground production expertise. The strategic location of Bajdah Studios offers producers the opportunity to shoot on location in the stunning landscapes of NEOM while being in close proximity to the state-of-the-art sound stages complete with back-of-house facilities comprising of make-up rooms, green rooms and production offices.Director Abdulaziz Alshlahei explained: “Since 2018, we have been thinking about unique locations to shoot our film. We decided on NEOM, and specifically Bajdah, where the captivating landscapes will be an influential and integral part of the narrative. Our director of photography will use anamorphic lenses to do justice to this extraordinary and majestic destination and set a beautiful atmosphere for the film. I’m excited about shooting and would like to take this opportunity to thank the NEOM Media Industries team for welcoming us and supporting the film.”Wayne Borg, Managing Director of Media Industries, Entertainment, and Culture at NEOM, said, “We are thrilled to be the location of choice for Abdulaziz Alshlahei’s latest homegrown feature ‘Hobal’. We are looking forward to supporting him in every step of the way to bring his vision to the screen, in what is a very exciting time for the local industry. There is a huge appetite for compelling authentic stories from the region across a range of genres that are now transcending borders which we are proud to be a part of. Supporting the new generation of trailblazing filmmakers and talent is of strategic significance to our industry and is central to creating a film ecosystem as we cement our position as the regional gateway to the industry.”NEOM has supported and provided the backdrop for over 30 local projects spanning film and television across documentary and fiction in the last 18 months including Rupert Wyatt’s ‘Desert Warrior’, starring Anthony Mackie and Sir Ben Kingsley, ‘Dunki’ directed by Rajkumar Hirani and starring Shahrukh Khan, the first regional reality TV show ‘Million Dollar Island’ and ‘Rise of The Witches’, the region’s biggest-ever budget TV show. In addition, MBC’s ‘Exceptional’, a 200-episode-a-year TV drama series is set to begin shooting in July.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Roxy Cinemas is bringing back some of the best movies of 2023 back on the big screen. Guests can sit back, relax and watch some of their favourite Oscar nominated films including Elvis, Top Gun: Maverick, Avatar: The Way of Water, The Fabelmans, and Triangle of Sadness, for only AED 40.ELVIS: Whilst on a mission to transform the mainstream rock and roll culture of the USA, singer Elvis Presley uses his fame to highlight racism within the countryTOP GUN: MAVERICK: Thirty years of service leads Maverick to train a group of elite TOPGUN graduates to prepare for a high-profile mission while Maverick battles his past demons.AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER: Jake Sully and Ney'tiri have formed a family and are doing everything to stay together. However, they must leave their home and explore the regions of Pandora. When an ancient threat resurfaces, Jake must fight a difficult war against the humans.

With just a few days remaining before the launch of the all new edition of Disney On Ice presents Mickey and Friends to Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Arena, Disney icon, Mickey Mouse, explores the UAE’s capital. Taking place from 12th to 16th October, families, friends and Disney fanatics are set to enjoy the all new interpretation of this magical show.This beloved character has been spotted throughout Abu Dhabi at iconic destinations including the Louvre, Etihad Arena and Breakwater, as he prepares himself for the launch of this new, glittering performance. Mickey’s thrilling journey throughout the city has delighted fans as they see their favorite character in unlikely locations and building buzz and anticipation for the upcoming show.Following his adventures throughout the city, Mickey will now be preparing for this exciting take on Disney On Ice, and he will be joined by Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck and Goofy on a journey to discover his favorite memory of all time. Using Mickey’s “Mouse Pad,” show hosts encourage fans to be part of the action and help the gang venture though Disney stories, sharing memorable moments from treasured tales. Along the way, families sail away with Moana as she displays courage to save her island on a high-seas adventure with the demigod, Maui. Families will continue the journey to the wintry world of Arendelle as royal sisters Anna and Elsa discover true love is the most powerful magic of all and experience the mysterious magic of Fantasia as a Sorcerer’s Apprentice makes brooms come to life. “Live Your Story” alongside Disney Princesses as they use perseverance, determination and hard work to inspire Mickey and children around the world to share their favorite Disney memories.