VIDEO: Hollywood stars connect with Dubai's all-embracing spirit
- 19 Nov 2019
Gulf Today, Staff Reporter
Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism) announces an exciting new collaboration with Hollywood superstars Gwyneth Paltrow, Kate Hudson and Zoe Saldana. The project, centres around the short film ‘A Story Takes Flight’, which stars the actresses as themselves embarking on three journeys of exploration through Dubai, filled with inspiration, discovery, and human connections.
Issam Kazim, CEO, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM) commented: “Inspired by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates, and Ruler of Dubai’s aspirational leadership, the people of Dubai reflect the city’s underlying spirit, where the pursuit of excellence has no finish line.
‘A Story Takes Flight’ is unlike any other film in that it speaks to this defining character of our city. It is a story of each person's discovery through their interaction with Dubai. Regardless of who you are or where you are from, your journey with us also has no finish line – and the paths to explore are endless.”
Filmed by Emmy and Director’s Guild award-winning director, Reed Morano, who is known for her immersive, natural, and cinematic style, it captures the essence of each actress and the intimate relationships between them, while capturing the beauty of Dubai.
Reliving her experience, Oscar award winning actress Gwyneth Paltrow said: “One of my favourite parts of travelling is to truly connect with a city, its people and the local culture. Dubai is special because it's a melting pot. Both the ones born here, who are so proud of their heritage, and those who are recent transplants, bringing with them their own values and traditions, contribute to writing the future story of the city. My time in Dubai was beyond anything I expected and there’s still so much more to see.”
Actress and entrepreneur Zoe Saldana commented: “The variety Dubai gave me was perfect. I went from riding horses at sunrise to watching the sunset from 150 metres in the sky. I can’t wait to bring my boys here to continue the adventure.”
Emmy award winning actress Kate Hudson added: “Honestly, I was so grateful for the hospitality I received. I spent a lot of time exploring the winding streets of Old Dubai. It’s incredible to find such a vibrant art and music community in the heart of such a modern, futuristic city – which is what most people think Dubai is. But really, the friendliness of the people is what made my visit amazing, and it’s why I’ll come back.”
Shot over eight days with a crew from over 30 nationalities, the production of the film evokes the spirit of a city born from multiculturalism, which continues to thrive as a consequence of people from all walks of life calling it home.
Issam Kazim added: “As a city, we were thrilled to have the opportunity to host Gwyneth, Zoe and Kate, and work with such an incredible director, which Reed is. Through the eyes of the actresses we see the values, connections, and experiences that are ingrained in the fabric of Dubai. This is what we represent. We are proud to be a city home to over 200 nationalities and we welcome visitors to write the next chapter of their story here."
With the ultimate vision of positioning Dubai as the world’s leading tourism destination and commercial hub, Dubai Tourism’s mission is to increase the awareness of Dubai among global audiences and to attract tourists and inward investment into the emirate.
Dubai Tourism is the principal authority for the planning, supervision, development and marketing of Dubai’s tourism sector. It markets and promotes the Emirate’s commerce sector and is responsible for the licensing and classification of all tourism services, including hotels, tour operators and travel agents. Brands and departments within the Dubai Tourism portfolio include Dubai Business Events, Dubai Calendar, and Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment.