Canon Middle East empowers Arab filmmakers with new generation digital technology

• Celebrates partnership with Egyptian filmmaker Khaled Abol Naga with the screening of acclaimed movie ‘Microphone’ shot entirely on Canon EOS 7D
• Discussion on ‘Film Making -The Digital Revolution’ underlines strength of Canon’s product expertise

Dubai, UAE; March 13, 2014: Canon Middle East, the leader in imaging solutions, is empowering filmmakers in the Arab world with new generation digital filmmaking technology that enables faster, smarter and high quality film production.

This was underlined at a private screening in Dubai of Microphone, a highly acclaimed Egyptian film directed by Khaled Abol Naga, shot entirely on Canon EOS 7D. The film has won numerous awards including Cairo's CIFF Best Arabic Film Award 2010, Tunisia's J.C.de., Carthage Tanit d'Or Award 2010 and Istanbul's IIFF Best Film Golden Tulip Award 2011.

At a discussion that followed the film’s screening on ‘Filmmaking: The Digital Revolution,’ the spotlight was on Canon’s new digital technology, which has the potential to revolutionise the Middle East’s film industry landscape.

Commenting on the industry, Anurag Agarwal, Managing Director, Canon Middle East, said: “The Arab film industry is witnessing unprecedented growth with a number of immensely talented young filmmakers stepping forward who have a serious focus on cinema. They have compelling stories to tell the world but are often constrained by budgets and support crew. With platforms such as Dubai International Film Festival providing regional filmmakers strong international exposure, financing and industry support, their talents can be even more effectively channeled by leveraging the power of digital technology in filmmaking.

“Khaled Abol Naga’s Microphone is a great example of how Arab filmmakers can draw on digital technology to cut the cost of production without compromising on quality. Canon’s digital products open new doors of opportunities for the region’s aspiring directors to make movies at less cost and more convenience. In fact, this is part of a global trend with Hollywood and Bollywood adapting digital technology, thus saving millions of dollars.”

On his experience of using Canon EOS 7D, Khaled said the possibilities offered by digital filmmaking have the power to transform the Arab world’s film industry. “The Canon DSLR cameras provide access to cutting edge technology that is affordable and mobile without compromising on quality. With this kind of accessibility, the Arab world is witnessing a huge step forward in filmmaking.”

Khaled said he will continue to use Canon digital equipment including the Cinema EOS range for his future films.

Canon Middle East is extending its partnership with Khaled as Canon Ambassador, and will support his initiative ‘I-Team-Cairo’ - the Independent Talents of Egypt and Arab World Model. Canon will provide talented filmmakers in the region with the right training and equipment, enabling them to fulfill their aspirations.

Canon’s digital filmmaking technology covers its full-feature DSLR cameras and professional cinematography EOS cinema range. The EOS 5D Mark II, introduced in 2008, is the first DSLR camera to incorporate full HD video capability and has transformed the motion picture industry, making it possible for anyone to shoot video with a limited budget.

Canon’s digital technology energy saving features offers benefits such as less power and lighting required, compared to traditional filmmaking equipment. No chemical processes are needed either that conventionally go into developing films.

Canon Digital camera technology has low-light capabilities, and less equipment needs to be packed due to the compact size of the cameras and accessories thus making mobility easier.

Agrawal added: “Canon and the incredibly accomplished artist Khaled Abol Naga share a passion for unlocking new opportunities for aspiring filmmakers and our aligned values reflect our commitment to the film industry.  The power of digital technology to uncover creative talent and revolutionise filmmaking in the region is something we are really proud to be part of.”

Canon Middle East is currently focused on diversification into new business domains such as professional cinematography and pro-video business in the region.