218: Behind The Wall of Silence: new UAE-made suspense drama to be released in Sharjah

SHARJAH - Based on its pioneering role in promoting media and film production in the UAE and the region and creating more opportunities for innovators in the field, Sharjah Media City (Shams) launched the special screening of "218: Behind The Wall of Silence".

The film is a suspense drama that revolves around three women, Aisha, Salama and Latifa, coming from completely different backgrounds and living completely different lives.

They are linked by a mysterious event in the eponymous “218” apartment which leads to a story of domestic violence, nostalgia for a lost past and the pursuit of revenge.

Shams, a pioneer of media and film production in the Emirates launched its “Emirati Artistic Experiment” early in 2019.

“218: Behind The Wall of Silence”, the initial result of  the Shams initiative in cooperation with the Arab Format Lab company is the first work made by the public in the Arab world, aiming to support young talents and creators.

The film, which goes on general release on May 20, was given its first screening this week. The film’s director is Nahla Al Fahd from Dubai. She is a leading maker of commercials, entertainment, documentaries and music videos.

At a press conference at the screening she was joined by some of the film’s actors and technicians, including Habib Ghuloom, Mari Al Halyan, Mansour Al Faily, Amal Mohammed, Abdullah bin Haider, Haifa Al Ali, and Fatima Jassim.

In the audience for the first screening were Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Media Council, Dr Khalid Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Media City (Shams) and Shihab Al Hammadi, Director of Shams.

Midfa explained on Monday “Shams is working to achieve the vision and directions of the wise leadership aimed at making a qualitative leap in the economic scene in the Emirate of Sharjah and the UAE through the development of many vital sectors”.

He continued “The media, cinematographic and creative production sectors are at the top of our priorities because of their importance in creating economic prominence and cultural and artistic momentum in Emirati society.”