Uncompromising Cinema
A Filmmaker-duo
Diana and Orwa form
a dynamic filmmaking duo, leaving an indelible mark on the world of documentary cinema, both individually
and together.
DOX BOX Film Festival in Syria
In 2007, the couple pioneered DOX BOX, Syria's inaugural documentary film festival, which swiftly burgeoned into the largest of its kind across the Middle East. This platform not only welcomed talents from around the world but also played a pivotal role in nurturing a vibrant community of documentary filmmakers within the Arab region.
DOX BOX became synonymous with its commitment to empower creatives, engage in social and political discourse, and fortify the documentary industry.
For their commitment and contribution to the advancement of documentary cinema culture, they were awarded the European Documentary Network EDN Award,
the Cathrin Cartridge Award,
and the Heart of Sarajevo.
Started in Damascus, Syria
After their encounter and with a shared passion for the art of film, they establish their inaugural production venture in 2002 under the production banner, PROACTION FILM, where they championed an array of imaginative, author-driven documentaries, both domestically and on the international stage.
International co-productions
In addition to their roles as writers, directors, and editors, their portfolio soon incubated award-winning titles such as "DOLLS - A WOMAN FROM DAMASCUS" (2007), "RETURN TO HOMS" (2013), and "SILVERED WATER - SYRIA SELF-PORTRAIT" (premiered at Cannes 2014), each lauded for their artistic and thought-provoking narrative.
Relocating in Berlin, Germany.
Orwa heads NO NATION FILMS
Under Orwa's stewardship, NO NATION FILMS thrived, producing notable international co-production titles like "NOTTURNO" (2020) by Gianfranco Rossi and "REPUBLIC OF SILENCE" (2021) by Diana El Jeiroudi, both premiering at the Venice Film Festival. In addition, the company continued to manage previous titles from their Damascus’ outfit, Proaction Film.
IDFA Artistic Direction
Orwa assumed the Artistic Direction at the International Documentary Film Festival since 2018 focusing his central mission, alongside a devoted team, to steer IDFA as a beacon of excellence, inspiration, inclusivity, and creativity on the global stage.
Through his task he endeavours to cement IDFA's position as a vital Dutch cultural institution throughout the year.
Inspired by the international campaign for his release back in 2012 in Syria, and through his new role at IDFA, as well as and along side the European Film Academy, and the Rotterdam International Film Festival, Orwa initiated and co-founded the International Coalition for Filmmakers at Risk (ICFR).
Non-Conflict DisclaimerDuring IDFA artistic direction entrusted to Orwa, to maintain non-bias policy, films produced at No Nation Films cannot compete at IDFA.Rebranding
Following political challenges, the pair relocated to Berlin.
They co-founded DOX BOX e.V., as documentary support association, alongside PROACTION FILMS (later rebranded as NO NATION FILMS) as a company to continue their films.
Diana assumed leadership of DOX BOX e.V. , while Orwa took the reins
at NO NATION FILMS.
Diana leads DOX BOX e.V.
Diana dedicated 5 years to mainly set up DOX BOX e.V. as a documentary support organisation in Germany, while continuing to mentor and produce filmmakers at NO NATION FILMS, and working on her films.
Under Diana's leadership, DOX BOX e.V. flourished, offering a range of impactful initiatives. These encompassed prosperous grant programs, online courses and workshops, artist residencies, networking gatherings, an international documentary convention, and a library of publications, including in-depth studies.
a filmmaker at core
After her tenure at DOX BOX in 2018, Diana concentrated on her vocation as a script writer and filmmaker and completed her first feature length “REPUBLIC OF SILENCE” in 2021, and concluding a long-term production "5 SEASONS OF REVOLUTION" in 2023.
Meanwhile, she continues to dedicate her time to mentoring and tutoring at esteemed workshops worldwide, offering her expertise at institutions like Berlinale Talent, The Circle Women Doc Accelerator, Ex-Oriente, and Docs by the Sea. Additionally, she serves as a valued reader for international film funds and as a juror at prestigious film festivals.
setting up NNF Atelier
In 2024, Diana takes the helm at NO NATION FILMS, marking a new chapter in their remarkable journey by starting the NO NATION FILMS Atelier as a new model for international co-production.
