Sharjah24: Global film audiences in Mexico have enriched their knowledge about the culture of Sharjah and the UAE and the pivotal historical events that have shaped the emirate’s growth with the screening of Khorfakkan, an epic debut production by Sharjah Broadcasting Authority (SBA), at movie theaters in Mexico.

Screened on November 28 and 29 as part of Sharjah’s Guest of Honour programming at the 36th Guadalajara International Book Fair, the film is based on a book titled Khorfakkan's Resistance Against the Portuguese Invasion of September 1507, authored by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed AlQasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. 

The award-winning film highlights the epic resistance of inhabitants of the city of Khorfakkan during the Portuguese invasion in 1507 led by naval commander General Afonso de Albuquerque. A technical and visually stunning masterpiece, the film turned the spotlight on the values of the Arab civilisation and introduced audiences in Mexico to an intriguing chapter in Sharjah’s history that may not be well known in geographically distant regions like Latin America.

The screening of Khorfakkan as part of the cultural programming at Guadalajara International Book Fair further enhanced Sharjah’s status as an ambassador of Arab and Emirati culture in Mexico and across Latin America. Through the cinematic depiction of the historic event, SBA seeks to familiarise the present generations with the suffering of the people of Khorfakkan who, despite their lack of advanced military equipment, put up a valiant resistance to the brutal Portuguese invasion and occupation. 

Starring prominent Arab and Emirati artists, Khorfakkan also highlights the role of culture, arts and knowledge in raising awareness of the values of self-determination of the people of Sharjah. 

Produced in collaboration with Get Go Films, Ltd, the film was directed by US and Irish filmmakers Ben Mole and Maurice Sweeney, with Ireland’s Richard Kendrick helming the camera. The film had a cast of more than 300 and was shot on location in the tranquil environs of Khorfakkan against a backdrop of mountains, farms, and the sea framing the ancient city.