We Create Drama: A Cinematic Showcase in Dubai

A Groundbreaking Festival for Emerging Filmmakers

From late-night sparks of inspiration to full-scale productions in just 24 hours, We Create Drama has become a vital proving ground for the UAE’s most audacious emerging filmmakers. The festival recently returned with an expanded roster of twelve finalist short films, all produced under intense time constraints, filmed in the vibrant and luxurious spaces of the Paramount Hotels in Dubai.

Spanning a week, the festival featured a dynamic blend of activities, including an illustrious rooftop Opening Night at the Malibu Sky Lounge, hands-on filmmaking workshops led by industry experts, and a grand Closing & Awards Ceremony. The event was supported by prominent sponsors such as Nikon Middle East FZE, Aputure Middle East, Grand Stores, Westford University, and Scripted Events, effectively merging cinematic ambition with real-world creative energy.

Award-Winning Films and Standout Performances

Among the festival’s most celebrated entries was Cassandra’s Client, a darkly comic short film that swept three major awards—Best Film, Best Cinematography, and Best Actress. The film revolves around a fraudulent spiritual guru whose séance unexpectedly spirals into chaos. The assistant director, stepping in for the absent director, shared their disbelief at the accolades, saying, “We all have corporate jobs by day, but filmmaking is our real passion. This was a team effort.”

Behind the Camera: A Cinematographer’s Challenge

For cinematographer Ashiq Georgi Abraham, capturing the essence of Cassandra’s Client was as much about precision as adaptability. Shooting within a bustling hotel posed unique challenges, as it was fully operational. “It was a full-running hotel operating at maximum capacity,” he recalled. “Shooting everything in 24 hours meant we had to be sharp, fast, and creative. The challenge was how different can you be?”

With experience spanning commercials, documentaries, and short films, Ashiq believes festivals like We Create Drama are essential for exploring new creative frontiers while gaining exposure.

Raw Talent Takes the Stage

Actress Romina Satvat, who portrayed the titular Cassandra, impressively stepped into the role as a last-minute replacement. “Honestly, I didn’t expect even a nomination,” she said, reflecting her journey. Originally from Iran and based in Dubai, Romina juggles work in commercials, social media, and short films, continuously enriching her ability to connect deeply with her characters.

Highlighting Diverse Voices and Unique Narratives

While Cassandra’s Client dominated the awards, other films left memorable impressions. Filmmaker Abdul Majid Abbasi won Best Director for his thought-provoking short, Mr. Brown, inspired by tender moments shared with his daughter during a hotel staycation.

This film chronicles John Smith and his family as they check into the seemingly perfect Paramount Hotel, only for chilling events to unfold. As John’s wife, Maria, becomes increasingly suspicious, dark undertones in the hotel’s atmosphere reveal that some guests may not depart easily.

Transitioning from photography to cinematography and finally to directing, Abdul reflects on his inspiration: “There was a curtain I’d hide behind and ask my daughter to find me. What if people just started disappearing?” The resulting film combines suspense with clever visuals, including a mystical mirror that turns opaque, adding a supernatural layer. Despite the demanding 24-hour shoot, Abdul credited his team and hotel staff for their coordination, stating, “Filmmaking like this is a team sport.”

Emotional Depth in Storytelling

Best Script accolades went to Joe Alexander for What We Leave Behind, a poignant narrative penned as a tribute to a lost loved one. “The only way to become a filmmaker is to make a film,” Joe remarked. His script resonated strongly with judges for its emotional clarity and deft execution.

Canadian actor Teq Zwarych captured Best Actor for This Is Love Too, a gritty examination of vulnerability set in a therapist’s office. The film delves into a couple’s crumbling relationship, exploring themes of performative affection and silence that speaks volumes. “The attention to detail was remarkable,” he noted. “It was a team win, 100%.”

Celebrated Jury and Prizes

All festival winners were selected by a distinguished jury, including notable figures like Egyptian film and TV star Mohammed Mamdouh, acclaimed Jordanian director Razan Takash, and award-winning cinematographer Jingyu Liu, along with other creatives from Nikon, Westford University, and the regional film community. The rewards were more than just trophies; winners received professional filmmaking gear along with luxury hotel experiences to inspire their future projects.

What unfolded over those 24 hours was a testament to the power of collaboration and creative storytelling, proving that even a hotel, a camera, and a limited timeframe can yield remarkable narratives that resonate long after the credits roll.