The Middle Eastern contingent

Doha-based director and actor Amir Scandar unfortunately can't get to Cannes due to work commitments at the Doha Film Institute, where he spends his days as an associate producer.

His latest short film, Dunia, however, has made the trip over to France and will screen as part of the short film corner.

"It's great news for my film, but not so good for me," he said. "I am so proud to be a part of such a wonderful film festival."

Dunia is three stories in one following a trio with very different lives, something which only stands to highlight the cracks in each of their communities.

The Mad Camel is heading to Cannes — luckily not to walk the red carpet. That will be the job of Emirati director, producer, animator and composer Mohammad Fikri, who brought the crazed camel to life on screen in a four-minute short film.

"It's exciting to be showing my film at the Cannes Short Film Corner," he said. "It may not seem like the biggest news, but this business is about the people you meet. It's all about learning and growing."

Among the Directors' Fortnight selection at this year's festival will be On the Plank (Sur la Planche) by Moroccan director Leila Kilani which was supported by SANAD, Abu Dhabi Film Festival's development and post-production fund initiative.

Kilani's debut feature, the only Arab entry in the selection, explores the lives of four female friends on the run, their choices and shattered destinies.

Mohammad Al Daradji, whose SANAD-supported project The Train Station was also chosen along with 14 other projects for the Atelier, will be present at the festival, along with his producers.

Meanwhile, Dam999, a 3D film produced by Sharjah-based Biz TV Network and directed by debutante Sohan Roy, set in the backdrop of an impending Indian dam disaster, will be screened at the Palais Theatre today.

The movie, which will have a repeat screening on Monday, is shopping for international distributors.