Withered Green

Mohammed Hammad / Egypt / 2016 / 73 mins

Still reeling from the death of her parents, Iman is tasked with coordinating traditional marriage proposal procedures on behalf of her younger sister, Noha. With no male relative available to facilitate the proposal (in accordance with local customs), Iman is forced to make a difficult, unconventional decision.

Saudi Showcase

These films represent the best of Saudi filmmaking, reflecting the creativity, culture, and humor of the Saudi people, and most notably: its filmmaker's penchant for crafting boundary-pushing work. AFF is looking forward to bringing these films to American audiences who are intrigued yet often misinformed by the media about Saudi life and values. These filmmakers represent the future of Saudi film and offer a look at its independent film scene American audiences would otherwise not be privy to.

In Syria

Philippe Van Leeuw / Belgium, France, Lebanon, Syria / 2017 / 85 mins

A mother attempts to keep her family safe as war rages and a sniper lies in wait outside her home.

The Nile Hilton Incident

Tarik Saleh / Denmark, Egypt, Germany, Sweden / 2016 / 110 mins

Cairo 2011, just weeks before the revolution. Police detective Noredin, working in the infamous Kasr el-Nil Police Station, is handed the case of a murdered singer. He soon realizes that the investigation concerns elite players, close to the President’s inner circle.

17

Widad Shafakoj / Jordan / 2017 / 73 mins

Follows an under-17 women's football team as they prepare for the FIFA U17 Women's World Cup, with the weight of the world resting on their shoulders.

Gaza Surf Club

Philip Gnadt, Mickey Yamine / Germany, Palestine, USA / 2016 / 87 mins

A deep dive "on ground zero" spotlight on Gaza's surf community, which has experienced, survived, and overcome a multitude of obstacles synonymous with the pains of occupation.