DUBAI: The Dubai International Film Festival (Diff) 2017 is set to celebrate the magic of cinema once again, as film fans, international stars and rising talent descend on the Emirate for the opening of its 14th edition on Wednesday. Over the next eight days, an incredible mix of films and forums will take place across the city, from glamorous galas and intriguing industry events featuring innovative filmmaking and shining a spotlight on budding local talent.

Growing year on year since its inception in 2004, Diff has cemented its status as one of the region’s premiere film festivals, celebrated not only for its international reach, but also for its status as a platform for Arab cinema on a global stage. The 14th edition will once again showcase an eclectic selection of films and tell stories from diverse cultures, with a total of 140 films in more than 38 languages from 51 countries, including 50 world premieres and international premieres and 81 MENA premieres.

The Opening Night Gala will screen the MENA premiere of acclaimed actor, writer and director Scott Cooper’s Western epic ‘Hostiles’, starring Christian Bale, Rosamund Pike and Wes Studi.

A fan favourite, the free public open-air screenings at The Beach, opposite JBR, returns for the 14th edition with eight wonderful nights of enchanting cinema under the stars. Beginning with a live screening of the star-studded action at the Opening Night Red Carpet, The Beach screenings will kick off on Wednesday with the premiere of renowned Iranian filmmaker Majid Majidi’s latest feature, ‘Beyond the Clouds’. Filmed in India, the film dwells on the adoration of love, life and nuanced human relationships, starring theatre actress, Malavika Mohana and Ishaan Khatter.