(Abu Dhabi)- 7th edition of the Abu Dhabi Film Festival has started. The opening ceremony, held at the majestic Emirates Palace, was attended by a bevy of Arab stars. Oscar-winning actor Forest Whitaker charmed the audience at the star-studded opening gala with his humility as he accepted the Black Pearl Career Achievement award at the ceremony. Hollywood film ‘Life of Crime’ gave an entertaining kick-off to the extravaganza. “It is humbling to be in this city,” Whitaker said as he received the award.
For the opening ceremony, the red carpet rolled out for what turned out to be an immaculate turnout of celebrities – actors, filmmakers, technicians and officials, all dressed in their finery. In attendance was also Australian actress Jacki Weaver, who is here to preside over the narrative competition jury. There was also Palestinian actress and director Hiam Abbass, who is a part of the jury too, and will receive the Black Pearl Achievement award later during the fest.
Ali Al Jabri, who is serving his second year as the festival director, said it makes him proud to see how the festival structure and attendance have expanded, setting an example for other film festivals in the Gulf region. As many as 166 films, 94 features and 72 shorts from 51 countries are due to be screened during the festival, which will conclude Nov 2.