Showbiz Arabia: Habib Guloom on Emirati film industry

If you're not familiar with Arab celebrities, chances are you still recognise the actor pictured here. Habib Guloom Al Attar broke onto the international film scene two years ago after appearing in the Emirati breakthrough hit, City of Life. Al Attar played the father of the young and reckless Faisal (Saoud Al Kaabi), who is at wit's end thanks to Faisal not really taking his personal or professional life seriously.

In the Arab world, Al Attar is also quite the celebrity. Known for roles in productions including Tenbak and Lahazat Harega, the actor and director is also one-half of one of the GCC's best-known power couples — he is married to Bahraini actress Haifa Hussain.

But that's not all; a permanent fixture in the Emirati performing arts scene, Al Attar — who has a PhD in the arts — is the director of cultural and community-based activities at the UAE's Ministry of Culture, Youth and Community Development.

Al Attar attended this year's Dubai International Film Festival (Diff) to support the Emirati film industry. Here's what he had to say. 

Those who don't necessarily follow Arab cinema may recognise you from City of Life. What was it like being part of one of the UAE's best-selling films to date?

What I loved about City of Life was that it was a different idea, and it was an open and honest film. It was good to see an Emirati production push the boundaries. Ali Mustafa is half-Emirati and half-British, so I think he brought along a different viewpoint with him, so to speak.

For example, this was the first film to ever show an Emirati young man enter a club. And despite the fact some did question why this was being shown, we have to be realistic that not every young Emirati man is spending their time doing good.

What do you make of the current Emirati film industry?

It's strange, because I do get the feeling that people still do not have faith in the Emirati arts. I would like to see every Emirati male and female support the industry more. Of course, it is still young and kind of difficult.

I remember that my parents always wanted me to study engineering or medicine, but I was in love with art and theatre and acting, so that's what I completed my studies in. And I even went on to do my masters and PhD in performing arts. But it was not the easy choice. However, I think things can improve and we can work towards establishing an industry.

How, in your opinion, has Diff shaped the country's industry?

The Dubai International Film Festival is impressive — everybody has something nice to say about it, and it has established itself on a global level. It is a festival that everyone from around the world hears of now, and filmmakers and talent want to attend.

What I love about it is the fact that the festival does not only focus on the screening of films. It also runs things like film forums, press conferences, galas of different kinds, and so on. I am very proud of this festival, as well as every other festival that takes place in this wonderful country.

Moving forward, what steps can be taken for the UAE's film industry to grow?

Like I mentioned, we need support from the UAE's people. As for the festival, it should look at the things that needs to be improved, then improve on them next year, and so on. It is always good to continue to challenge yourself and push towards creating a bigger industry.

This festival has been tremendously beneficial for Emirati actors and directors, and it is fantastic to see more and more short films being screened. I filmed a number of short films this year myself! I can't wait to see longer films, and really see the UAE film industry make a name for itself.

====

Elissa is said to be "freaking out" over her recent weight gain. The normally svelte Lebanese star has packed on the pounds in recent months, and, judging by comments on Facebook and Twitter, even her fans have started to notice.

A source close to the star said: "Elissa has not been happy with her figure lately. Normally, she is very disciplined when it comes to eating healthily and working out, but she has been so busy lately that she has been eating out a lot.

"Elissa has taken on the advice of her fans, and is doing her best to follow a strict eating plan in order to lose the weight. But she is beautiful no matter what."

In case you caught the news that Mena Shalaby died in a car accident this week, don't worry, it's not true.

According to the Elaph newspaper, an unknown individual started a rumour on Facebook and Twitter suggesting that the Egyptian actress was involved in a car crash that led to her death. However, journalists' calls were transferred to the actress herself, who personally told them she was okay.

"I am shocked at this sick rumour," Mena said. "And I can't believe how quickly it spread. Anyhow, needless to say, I am okay, and I am even currently shooting a movie.

"I am in good health — there's no tragedy."

Two weeks after Egyptian actor Amr Waked announced he would not vote in his country's elections, he has come out opposing Mohammad Sobhy's nomination for the position of Culture Minister.

According to Al Youm Al Sabaa' newspaper, Waked said he didn't support Sobhy's candidacy due to his "dictatorship".

"He [Sobhy] is very dominating in his work, and it's his way or the highway," he said. "While I respect him as an actor and director, I don't think he should go into politics. We need someone who will listen to what people want."