DOHA: The Gulf premiere of Walter Salles’ Central Station (1998) will open the Qatar Brazil 2014 Cinema Showcase — a series of monthly screenings by Doha Film Institute (DFI) in partnership with Qatar Museums Authority (QMA).
Central Station will be shown at Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) auditorium on Thursday and Friday at 7pm.
The series will present classic and contemporary films that highlight the rich diversity of Brazil’s cinematic history and bring audiences unforgettable works from internationally renowned directors.
Central Station follows Dora, a jaded retiree, who writes letters for the illiterate at Rio de Janeiro’s Central Station.
When a terrible accident befalls one of her customers, Dora’s life is dramatically changed as she takes nine-year-old Josue under her wing and accompanies him on the search for his long-lost father.
The beloved multi-awarded film is a moving tale of the harshness of life and the kindness of the human heart.
It won the Golden Bear for Best Film at the 1998 Berlin International Film Festival where it had its world premiere, as well as other international prizes, including a Golden Globe and a BAFTA.
Abdulaziz Al Khater, DFI Chief Executive Officer, said: “We have had a very successful Qatar Japan 2012 and Qatar UK 2013 and it’s exciting to continue the cultural journey with Brazil in 2014.
“Through cinema, we learn so much about other cultures and the world around us.
“We are delighted to take local audiences on a journey into the Brazilian culture through the eyes of some of its most acclaimed filmmakers and continue to build on our aim to enhance film appreciation in the community,” Al Khater added.
An official at the Office of Strategic Cultural Relations, QMA, said: “Following the successful Years of Culture Qatar Japan 2012 and Qatar UK 2013, the office and DFI are looking forward to celebrating the Year of Culture Qatar Brazil 2014 with a selection of inspirational films to be showcased periodically throughout the year at MIA.”
The opening night begins at 6pm on Thursday with a reception.
Tickets are on sale at www.dohafilminstitute.com and MIA DFI Ticket Outlet.
They are priced at QR35 for general public and QR25 for students.
The Peninsula
