Jordan's Film Industry Shines at Shanghai Film Festival: Expanding Horizons and Strengthening Ties with China
Jordan's film industry is set to take the spotlight at the upcoming Shanghai Film Festival, showcasing two Jordanian films for the first time. With the global box office now being led by Asia and local films gaining popularity, Jordan is looking to expand its industry both domestically and internationally. The Royal Film Commission (RFC) will be supporting the screening of Zaid Abu Hamdan's "Boomah" and Zain Duraie's "Sink" at the festival, with the aim of securing distribution deals in China and strengthening ties with the Chinese film industry.
The RFC will be participating in the Belt and Road Film Alliance, which promotes cultural and industrial exchange among its members. In addition to having a dedicated booth at the festival's International Film & TV Market, the RFC will be organizing an event to showcase Jordan's film sector to industry professionals. A memorandum of understanding will also be signed with the China Film Administration in Beijing to enhance cooperation in the film industry.
The relationship between the RFC and the Chinese film industry has been growing over the past few years, with various exchanges and collaborations taking place. The goal is to position Jordan as a filming hub and attract Chinese productions to the country. The premiere of "Boomah" and "Sink" at the Shanghai Film Festival is a significant step in this direction, as it opens up opportunities for distribution deals and international exposure for Jordanian films.
The RFC's long-term vision includes the possibility of Jordanian-Chinese co-productions and showcasing stories that involve both countries and cultures. The historical ties between Jordan and China, dating back to the Silk Road era, serve as a foundation for this cultural exchange. Jordan's unique landscapes and state-of-the-art studio complex at Olivewood Film Studios make it an attractive location for international productions, with a cash rebate program and tax exemptions further incentivizing foreign filmmakers to choose Jordan as a filming destination.
The studio's international outreach extends to Asia and India, recognizing the potential for growth in these markets. Recent collaborations with Indian filmmakers, such as the filming of "Dragon" in Jordan, highlight the country's appeal as a versatile filming location. Despite challenges posed by geopolitical conflicts, Jordan remains optimistic about the future of its film industry and looks forward to continued partnerships with global players in the film industry.