Cabriolet Film Festival
Spotlight on Beirut: The 16th Cabriolet Film Festival
Cultural art, camera, Beirut! The 16th Cabriolet Film Festival returned from June 7 to 9, 2024, supported by the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom (FNF) Lebanon under the theme "The Other." This year's festival displayed a captivating lineup of Lebanese and international short films, each with diverse narratives.
Celebrating Cultural Diversity
The event began with the screening of "On the Mountain," supported by FNF Pakistan and directed by Anya Raza, setting the stage for an unforgettable open-air cinematic journey. Over three days, film enthusiasts gathered to celebrate cultural diversity and creativity. Each film illuminated different facets of human experience, offering insights into our world through the lens of talented filmmakers.
Attention and appreciation from the Cabriolet crowd on Saint Nicholas Stairs in Beirut.
Adopting Dialogue and Artistic Innovation
"We see cultural activities like the Cabriolet Film Festival as an opportunity to discuss political content and messages in times of shrinking spaces," said Aret Demirci, FNF Lebanon Project Director. The festival not only highlighted exceptional filmmaking but also encouraged dialogue and understanding through the art of cinema.
FNF Project Director Aret Demirci alongside festival organizers.
As the curtains closed on the 16th edition, the festival reaffirmed Beirut's status as a center of cultural vibrancy and artistic innovation. Cabriolet organizer Brahim Samaha remarked, “Life is too short to watch long movies.” — indeed as we’re looking ahead to next year's festivities, the Cabriolet Film Festival's legacy continues to shine brightly, paving the way for future storytellers!