Gael Garcia Bernal, Diego Luna, Alice Diop Set for DFI Qumra Lineup

Variety

by nvivarelli

February 15, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Doha Film Institute (DFI) has announced an impressive lineup of global film professionals for its 2026 Qumra Masters program, including Mexican actor-directors Gael García Bernal and Diego Luna, French-Moroccan filmmaker Alice Diop, Moroccan auteur Faouzi Bensaïdi, and Oscar-winning composer Gustavo Santaolalla. These luminaries will participate in onstage discussions and mentorship sessions at the Qumra Arab film industry incubator, which aims to support emerging filmmakers from the Arab region by fostering creativity, collaboration, and professional growth. Qumra, meaning "camera" in Arabic, is a unique event that combines creative workshops, co-production markets, and festival elements. Established by DFI, it seeks to empower first and second-time filmmakers, particularly Arabs, while bridging the gap between the Arab and international film communities. The program will showcase a selection of top-tier Arab films and TV projects in various stages of development. Notably, DFI-supported films such as "Only Rebels Win" by Franco-Lebanese director Danielle Arbid and "Safe Exit" by Egyptian filmmaker Mohammed Hammad are gaining recognition at international festivals like Berlinale. DFI CEO Fatma Hassan Alremaihi emphasized the importance of mentorship in shaping creative trajectories, highlighting the return of Gael García Bernal to Qumra after his participation in its inaugural edition. The event’s artistic advisor, Palestinian filmmaker Elia Suleiman, noted the significance of having multifaceted talents like Bernal and Luna, who bring diverse perspectives as actors, directors, and producers. This year’s Qumra, marking its 12th edition, will take place in Doha from March 27 to April 1, offering a platform for Arab filmmakers to connect with industry experts and showcase their work on a global stage. The inclusion of established figures like Alice Diop, known for her Venice Prize-winning film " Petite Afrique," and Gustavo Santaolalla, whose scores have earned him Academy Awards, underscores Qumra’s commitment to fostering cross-cultural collaboration. By bringing together international talent with Arab filmmakers, the program not only enhances creative opportunities but also amplifies the visibility of Arab cinema on the global stage. This unique blend of mentorship, networking, and creative exchange makes Qumra a vital hub for the development of independent film projects in the Middle East and beyond. For readers interested in entertainment and the film industry, the Qumra 2026 lineup highlights the growing influence of Arab cinema and the importance of supporting emerging talent. The event not only showcases innovative storytelling but also underscores the role of mentorship in shaping the future of global

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Originally published on Variety on 2/15/2026