Parting shot

A gala evening closed the first Middle East International Film Festival in style. Directors, producers, actors and VIPs a final walk along the red carpet before the winners were announced at the closing gala of the first Middle East International Film Festival.

More than 1,500 people dressed to impress to attend the event which included the screening of renowned director Paul Haggis' In the Valley of Elah, starring Tommy Lee Jones and Charlize Theron.

Haggis was one of the first to appear on the red carpet at the Emirates Palace Hotel, along with film actor-and-actress combo Jake McLaughlin and Frances Fisher.

Executive Director of the Festival, Nashwa Al Ruwaini, said the evening marked the culmination of a successful festival. She said: "We are committed to nurture and support the indigenous voices of Emirati filmmakers, as they are the soul and driving force of our work.

"Through these Awards, the Screenwriters Lab and the Film Financing Circle, we hope to provide a platform of knowledge and funding opportunities for emerging filmmakers."

The evening opened with a special dance performance choreographed by Otis Sallid which was extremely well-received.
A strictly black-tie event, couples, families and friends joined stars from all over the world to watch the regional premiere of the film in the grand auditorium at the impressive hotel.

Lebanese director Nadine Labaki, whose film Caramel sold out the previous evening looked stunning once again in black.

The screening was followed by a lavish terrace reception for all guests including drinks, canapés, entertainment and fireworks.