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Tag: Muslim International Film Festival

  • Ish is MIFF Best Feature by Jennie Kermode – 2026-07-06 10:13:51+00:00

    The curtain has closed on another vibrant cinematic event as the Muslim International Film Festival concluded in London, bringing an exciting collection of stories to the forefront.

    This year’s festival celebrated the breadth and depth of filmmaking, showcasing powerful narratives that explore complex human experiences, from difficult social realities to deeply personal relationships. The announcement of the prizewinners offered a delightful glimpse into the creative talent shaping the world of cinema.

    The award for Best Feature went to Ish, directed by Imran Peretta. This full-length work is a poignant exploration of friendship entangled with the harsh realities of racial profiling and a traumatic stop and search incident that affects two boys in profoundly different ways. Director Peretta expressed immense joy upon receiving the award, noting that while it is a very personal film, it speaks directly to the difficult times we are currently living through and highlights the vital need for such narratives to connect with audiences.

    Beyond the main feature, the festival recognized films that delve into historically significant or uniquely creative territory. A special mention was awarded to Roqia, which masterfully utilizes the medium of occult horror to explore the historical weight of Algeria’s Black Decade.

    The festival also spotlighted the power of short-form storytelling with the Best Short prize going to My Brother, My Brother. This film offers a touching look at the life course of a pair of conjoined twins, beautifully capturing the unique journey of their existence. The film was co-directed by Abdelrahman Dnewar and his brother Saad.

    The festival successfully demonstrated that cinema is a powerful medium capable of tackling serious social issues while simultaneously offering deeply engaging and unforgettable human stories. The winning films prove that when we tell our truths, the world listens.

    Credit: Eye For Film

  • Pilgrims' progress by Jennie Kermode

    For twenty-six years, director David Andrew Ward has navigated the cinematic landscape, exploring a wide spectrum of themes including music, sport, and true crime. But his latest project, Human Tide, marks a fascinating departure from his established repertoire.

    This new feature delves into a journey defined by faith, community, and profound experience. Human Tide follows various groups of people as they prepare for and then undertake the spiritual pilgrimage known as the Hajj.

    The film holds a special place as the closing entry at this year’s Muslim International Film Festival, adding a unique perspective to a gathering dedicated to Muslim cinema.

    Ward’s artistic drive stems from a deep fascination with the region and how it has evolved in recent years. He sought to capture not just an event, but the underlying spiritual journey that connects all people.

    “I was interested in making something that wasn’t in any way a religious film,” Ward explains. “I was interested in the fact that I would inevitably have an outsider’s eye.”

    This desire to document the human experience, rather than impose a specific theological narrative, is at the heart of his work. He aimed to capture the universal elements of this sacred journey, inviting viewers to witness the shared humanity unfolding during these momentous times.

    By focusing on the external observation and the shared spiritual curiosity present in the world, Ward crafts a piece that transcends traditional boundaries, offering an intimate look at human endeavor amidst profound ritual. It is a powerful testament to the timeless quest for meaning that resonates far beyond religious lines.

    Credit: Eye For Film

  • Muslim International Film Festival returns by Jennie Kermode – 2026-07-01 18:42:21+00:00

    London is gearing up for a cinematic celebration that promises to be both profoundly moving and incredibly diverse. The Muslim International Film Festival, or MIFF, is making its triumphant return, set to unfold over four days at the elegant Odeon Luxe West End.

    Kicking off this year’s festivities is the acclaimed film Hijra, a film that recently brought international recognition, winning a prestigious award in Venice. It sets an immediate high bar for the emotional depth and artistic quality on display.

    More than just a showcase of global filmmaking, MIFF is designed to be a journey. This year’s impressive feature programme invites audiences on an emotional odyssey, transporting viewers from Saudi Arabia and Palestine to Pakistan and Algeria, before bringing those powerful stories back home to the UK. The festival’s mission is clear: to explore narratives that are funny, challenging, deeply human, and intensely moving.

    Festival director Sajid Varda encapsulates this vision perfectly, arguing that cinema should facilitate these kinds of profound emotional journeys. He believes that through film, we can connect across borders and understand the shared, complex human experience.

    At a time when support for the UK’s Muslim communities is keenly felt, this festival serves as a vital platform. It offers a space not just for artistic expression but also for powerful cultural connection and community reflection.

    The MIFF brings together a truly global tapestry of stories, reminding everyone that cinema is a universal language capable of bridging the widest divides. It’s an event celebrating diversity, depth, and the shared humanity found in every frame.

    Credit: Eye For Film