Dubai: Film royalty met genuine royalty in Dubai Wednesday night at the opening of the sixth Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF), as the stars hit the red carpet for a gala screening of the musical Nine, to kick off eight days celebrating the world of film.
The titan of Indian cinema, Amitabh Bachchan — in town to receive a lifetime achievement award from DIFF — rubbed shoulders with Queen Noor of Jordan at the gala event held at Madinat Arena.
The supporting cast of Nine, dazzling in a variety of bright dresses, brought an extra touch of colour to the event in the absence of the lead cast, who were in Los Angeles for the US premiere of the film.
Before the screening of Nine, the film's all-star cast — who are in Los Angeles for the US premiere — send a video message to apologise for not being able to make it to DIFF. On screen, Penelope Cruz, Nicole Kidman and Judi Dench joined director Rob Marshall in greeting the DIFF audience. Marshall said he was "thrilled that this movie is opening the film festival".
Bachchan said the award, honouring his four decades in the industry, was a nod to Indian cinema's contribution to the film world.
"The award is not just a recognition of my talent but also of Indian cinema," Bachchan told at the big night.
"To get an award in a country other than your own is great recognition of my talents."
Also on the red carpet was American pop star and actress Mandy Moore, wearing a black ruffled Escada dress and Cartier jewellery. Moore will perform at the amfAR gala, a staple of DIFF which raises funds and awareness for Aids prevention, tonight.
"It's going to be a lot of fun," she said. "It will be a night of song and dance." Moore talked about her next film, an animated version of the fairy tale Rapunzel, and asked her fans to look out for it. "You have to watch it — it was so much fun to make. I love musicals."
DIFF stalwart Mammootty — who is presenting his film Kutty Srank this year — commended the festival's work.
"This is a very well organised event. I'm glad to return to DIFF year after year," the South Indian star said.
Queen Noor, who wore a white jelabiya with blue embroidery, will deliver the keynote speech at the festival's Cultural Bridge panel on Sunday, which will look at the role of the media in breaking down cultural barriers. The Jordanian royal is known throughout the world for her humanitarian work.
Earlier, DIFF Chairman Abdul Hamid Juma said he was sure Queen Noor's appearance would be a big draw at the festival.
"We are honoured to have Her Majesty Queen Noor with us this year, and we look forward to a ‘full house', given her status as an inspirational role model across the Arab world and globally admired as a humanitarian."
For the next eight days the red carpet will welcome Hollywood and Bollywood actors, directors, musicians and producers as well as movie makers from the UAE, the region and the rest of the world. DIFF runs until Dec-ember 16 at the Madinat Jumeirah.
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