Ala Hamdan is a film director and a visual storyteller. She studied filmmaking and screenwriting at NYFA Florence and New York. As the co-founder of At Films, a media production and training company, she conducted projects with the UN, UNDP, Sadeem, LG, Adidas, Roya TV, and others. Her projects focus on social justice, uplifting causes, and valuable educational content.
Besides, Ala is a passionate juror eager to watch creative works from all over the world.
We are thrilled to have you on the jury for the 2023 US International Awards. What was the decisive factor that made you participate?
Being a jury member is truly rewarding. Firstly, I get to give credits where credits are due and therefore be one of the reasons a good work has reached a wider audience and a better screen. Adding to that is the opportunity to meet different experts in the film industry from around the world and exchange knowledge. Lastly, the inspiration I get after watching several artworks and seeing how the film industry is never the same, never boring, and is always bringing something new to the table.
What projects have you done so far? Are there projects that stand out for you personally and what was the most challenging project you worked on so far?
I have worked on several uplifting projects such as commercials and TVCs. But the projects I mostly relate to are related to human rights, specifically women. Two in particular, one was a short drama about domestic violence and another was a documentary about womenpreneur in the MENA region. This second project was challenging as it took place in 3 countries in a short period of time and also due to the number of great stories we recorded and had to be cut down to a few questions to be able to create a documentary with a reasonable length to watch.
What are you currently working on? And what else is planned for the upcoming time?
We are currently working on a web series related to women's empowerment. Helping women who live in rural areas grow their home businesses. Adding to that is a project linked to the holy month of Ramadan, which will be a 30-day LIVE screening on a TV channel.
You were awarded several awards yourself. What does an award represent to you?
An award is a recognition and a reminder. Each reward reminds me of what I love doing. Films! It also gives me the power I need to keep creating.
In your opinion, what makes a “good” documentary? Alas, what are you looking for in a winning entry?
Storytelling is everything. You could have great footage, yet the story does not come together smoothly. I am looking for a great story supported by artistic footage.
Are there any tips for potential entrants? Production-wise and presentation-wise?
Technicals help: A good DOP, great coloring, and designing music, however, they all won’t get you anywhere without a powerful story or great storytelling techniques.
