In 2025, the Yaroslavl film festival "In the Circle of Family" for the first time presented a large-scale program of Arab cinema. Films from Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan not only competed but also won awards, proving that family values know no borders. How young filmmakers won over Russian audiences — in our feature story.

Yaroslavl once again became the world capital of family cinema by hosting the 20th anniversary International Festival «In the Circle of Family.» The world’s largest showcase of films for children and family audiences gathered a record number of participants: 43 countries, 157 films, and over 15,000 viewers. Special attention this year was given to Arab cinema, which made a vibrant statement, strengthening cultural bridges between Russia and the Middle East.

Arab Cinema in the Competition Program 

The festival presented an extensive program of Arab cinema, featuring films from Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan. These works not only impressed audiences with their originality but also received high praise from the jury.

Tunisia: «Age of Darkness» — A Story of Hope 

The short film «Age of Darkness» (22 min.) by young director Fadi Abdelkarim became one of the festival’s discoveries. This psychological drama tells the story of a 10-year-old colorblind boy who, despite his limitations, discovers his talent for drawing.

The film received a special jury prize for «bold experimentation» and had already been recognized at the Cairo Film Festival and screened in Cannes.

Despite his young age (20 years) and lack of professional education, Fadi Abdelkarim has already established himself as a talented filmmaker. His previous work, «The Fog of the Soul,» also won awards at national competitions.

«This film is a message of hope for all who live in darkness. For us, cinema is light that can overcome any obstacle,» says the director.

Saudi Arabia: «Khan» — A Young Talent’s Victory 

Another standout was the short film «Khan» (12 min.) by Saudi director Mujtaba Al-Hajj (22 years old). The story of a boy who sells his father’s belongings to buy his friends a new ball touched viewers with its sincerity.

Al-Hajj’s work has already conquered international festivals: it won the «Golden Gate» award in San Francisco (Saudi Arabia’s first victory at this festival), and in Yaroslavl, the director received the prize for Best Direction (short film).

Jordan: «Dinar» — A Social Drama with Deep Meaning 

The Jordanian film «Dinar» (98 min.) by director Muawia Al-Omari was part of the special «East-West» program. This social drama tells the story of Ali, a teacher forced to sell a family heirloom gold coin to save his mother.

The film won Best Screenplay at the Arab Film Festival in the UAE and was highly praised by critics for its combination of social realism and poetic imagery.

«This isn’t a story about money, but about what we’re willing to give to human relationships,» notes Al-Omari.

Cinema as a Bridge Between Cultures 

The participation of Arab films in the «In the Circle of Family» festival confirmed that family cinema is a universal language understood by all.

Tunisia showed that even with limited resources, one can create profound and moving cinema. 

Saudi Arabia demonstrated the growth of a new generation of directors willing to experiment. 

Jordan reminded us of the traditions of Arab cinema that combine drama with philosophical reflection.

The festival not only introduced Russian audiences to Arab cinema but also strengthened cultural ties between countries. See you in 2026 — with new stories, heroes, and emotions!

The festival is held with the support of the Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation and the State Corporation "Rostec"

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