We open this week with a fantastic program of films from across the Arab world. Sexy thrillers, light-hearted comedy, hard-hitting political drama and funky shorts will throw you head first into contemporary Arab experience.

Screening this Thursday to Sunday, over 24 films are selling fast to an audience from across Sydney and Australia. We’ll be joined by directors Samir Habchi from Lebanon (Beirut Open City) and Nicholas Rowe from New Zealand (The Secret World) for special Q&A sessions, along with local filmmakers from the Arab-Australian community.

First up on Thursday is our opening night Australian premiere Captain Abu Raed - the first Jordanian feature film to be screened in Australia and a favourite from the Sundance Film Festival.

From there the festival will lead you through Beirut’s underbelly, into the world of an Algerian scamstress, through the romantic drama of the Ashura festival and onto a Bagdad commuter bus for some laughs.

Take advantage of our marathon package, for $99/69 per adult/concession which gets you in to every film at the festival, excluding opening night - a saving of 20%.

Book online through Riverside Theatres or phone Box Office on 8839 3399.