On Thursday night, French-Algerian filmmaker Rachid Bouchareb and American producer Edward Pressman were each honoured with the Black Pearl Award at the 8th edition of Abu Dhabi Film Festival (ADFF). The award, presented on the opening night event at Emirates Palace, recognised the men’s outstanding contributions to films.
“I’m delighted to be back in Abu Dhabi,” said Pressman. He was one of many industry experts invited to the first International Showbiz Expo this year, and said he was privileged to have met a small group of regional filmmakers, who were encouragingly passionate and enthusiastic about their craft, the day before.
Pressman, who is known for films such as American Psycho, The Crow and Wall Street, said he hopes there will be many more films in his future. “I’ve just finished producing my 90th film,” he said, prompting a round of applause. “And many more in the pipeline. [This award] means so much to me. Thank you.”
Bouchareb, who is showing his film Two Men in Town at the festival, told tabloid! that his lead star, Forest Whitaker, learnt about Islam, prayer, and the Quran for his role as a Muslim convert. Whitaker won the Black Pearl Award at last year’s ADFF.
“Thank you for this, I’ll never forget it,” said Bouchareb, who earlier told tabloid! on the red carpet: “I wish every week in the world is like this.”
“It’s my first time in Abu Dhabi — tomorrow, I’ll go to Al Ain,” he added lightheartedly, much to the delight of attendees.
Speaking at the opening night event, festival director Ali Al Jabri said there are still many achievements to come.
“We’re not going to become complacent with a successful festival, but rather look forward to more and more projects,” he said.
