The Cabriolet Cinema Festival, a highlight of the Lebanese cultural scene, returns for its 16th edition. From June 7 to 9, 2024, it will offer three nights of cinematic magic, connecting various regions of the country in a celebration of art and community.
Since its inception in 2009, the Cabriolet Cinema Festival has established itself as a major event for cinema enthusiasts in Lebanon. This unique outdoor event, held annually, continues to shine by offering an exceptional platform for Lebanese and international short films. For its 16th edition, the festival is innovating by offering simultaneous screenings in different regions of the country, thus celebrating the love of the 7th art and culture.
The Cabriolet Cinema Festival began modestly on the stairs of Mar Nicolas in the Gemmayzeh neighborhood, but it quickly proved to be much more than just a cinematic event. It has become a symbol of hope and resilience for Beirut, particularly after the tragic events of August 4, 2020. Despite the obstacles, the festival has reinvented itself and persisted, testifying to the vitality of the city’s cultural and artistic scene.
This year, from June 7 to 9, 2024, the festival promises three unforgettable evenings of cinematic magic. Not content with illuminating Beirut, it will extend to other regions such as Zahle, Baalbeck, El Mina (Tripoli), and many more. The aim is to share the festival experience with a wider audience, thus reflecting its inclusive and unifying spirit.
The theme of this edition, ‘The Other,’ invites viewers to explore new horizons through the selected short films. It is an opportunity to discover new perspectives and immerse oneself in stories that transcend borders, enriching cultural dialogue and strengthening the connections between the audience and creators.
Beyond film screenings, the Cabriolet Cinema Festival aims to be a space for meeting and exchanging ideas between film professionals and cinephiles. Ibrahim Samaha, the festival’s founder, emphasizes the importance of this event being open to all, allowing the discovery of new talents and highlighting unique cinematic experiences.
Each year, an iconic personality from the cinema world is chosen as the festival’s patron, adding a touch of prestige to the event. For this 16th edition, actress Carmen Bsaibes will have the honor of accompanying the festival, joining figures such as Nadine Labaki and Georges Khabbaz who have previously supported the event.
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The Cabriolet Cinema Festival not only celebrates Lebanese cinema but also works to promote it abroad. Through partnerships with other festivals worldwide, it offers a showcase for Lebanese films while inviting international works to be screened in Lebanon. This year, out of approximately 3,500 films received, 37 have been carefully selected to be presented to the public.
By connecting different regions of Lebanon through simultaneous screenings, the festival strengthens its commitment to promoting cinema and culture.
