Behind the scene: Volunteers

Ahmad Ali Al Hassoni is a university student of Emirati and German origin. He says: "Besides doing my bachelor's degree in business administration I also work as an IT professional.

I took a month off from my job to be a DIFF volunteer. It has been a fun experience to work along with so many of my friends.

"I have been involved in various jobs such as compiling databases, sending out invitations and helping in the office. During DIFF I will be part of a team stationed at the Al Qasr hotel. Our responsibility is to check the transportation and other arrangements for all arriving guests and celebrities and offer any assistance they need. I enjoy it when the whole group is full of energy. I get bored when people are quiet and always try to liven things up.

"I am looking forward to seeing George Clooney and I also hope I will get some time to see some Indian movies. I would recommend that every student in the UAE should try to get this wonderful experience of being a DIFF volunteer."

Meet the jury

A graduate of Yale University, Michael Cimino made his feature film debut as a writer and director in 1974 with Thunderbolt and Lightfoot. In 1978, he received the Best Director Oscar for The Deer Hunter, which also won Best Film. He has been awarded France's Chevalier des Arts des Lettres for his body of work and has recently completed his third novel.

Miral Al Tahhawi

Miral Al Tahhawi is a writer and university teacher lecturing on literary criticism and novels. Among her award winning novels are The Shed, The Blue Eggplant and The Hoof Clicking of the Antelopes. She is also a well-known columnist and feature writer for several literary and women's magazines.

Take three films: The critic's choice

Tirador (Slingshot)

Director: Brillante Mendoza.
Language: Tagalog with English subtitles.
Length: 86 minutes.
Synopsis: As police raid a building in a slum in Manila, we are introduced to a boy who witnesses his father being killed. An energetic portrayal of theft, fights and bribery that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Watch it: Today at 5.15pm at Cinestar 7, Mall of the Emirates.

The 11th Hour

Directors: Nadia Conners and Leila Conners Petersen.
Language: English.
Length: 95 minutes.
Synopsis: This documentary - co-produced by Leonardo DiCaprio - combines archive footage and interviews with scientists and activists on the subject of the world's impending environmental catastrophe. Thankfully, it gives hope for the future.
Watch it: Today at 6.30pm at Cinestar 12, Mall of the Emirates.

Ea'adat Khalk (Recycle)

Director: Mahmoud Al Massad.
Language: Arabic with English subtitles.
Length: 80 minutes.
Synopsis: Abu Ammar, a former soldier, sustains his family by collecting cardboard boxes for recycling plants from the streets. As he struggles to reconcile his faith with the reality of the Middle East, he is forced to make a decision.
Watch it:Today at 12.30pm at Cinestar 11, Mall of the Emirates.

Box office

For tickets to DIFF screenings, visit the box offices at Souk Madinat Jumeirah, DMC Building 2, Grand Cineplex (Wafi), Cinestar (Mall of the Emirates) or at www.difftickets.com
Tickets are priced as follows:
Rhythm and Reels – Dh175.
Gala screenings – Dh80 for adults (Dh50 for children at the Children's Gala only).
Normal DIFF screenings – Dh25 for adults and Dh20 for students (must show valid ID card when picking up tickets).
For "10 or 25 Tix" Deals, the Rhythm and Reels Deal, Gala Deal or Day Pass, visit one of the box office locations in person or call 04-3676701 from 10am to 9pm.