The Amman International Film Festival – Awal Film (AIFF) was launched in 2020, its distinctive edge was its focus on first-time achievements in cinema. International juries select the Best Arab Feature-Length Narrative, Best Arab Feature-Length Documentary and Best Arab Short. Whereas the audiences choose their favourite international début film.
All winning films receive the Black Iris trophy as well as cash awards.
In addition to screenings, a programme of film industry events including master classes, seminars, pitching sessions and discussions, is organised to stimulate filmmakers in Jordan and the region.
- The Black Iris for Best Arab Feature-Narrative Film + 15,000 USD.
- Jury Award - Arab Feature-Length Narrative + 5,000 USD.
- The Black Iris for Best Arab Feature-Length Documentary Film + 10,000 USD.
- Jury Award - Arab Feature-Length Documentary + 5,000 USD.
- The Black Iris for Best Arab Short Film + 4,000 USD.
- Jury Award - Arab Short Film + 1,000 USD.
- The Black Iris for Best International Film awarded by the audience + 5,000 USD.
Special Mentions:
- First-time Lead Actor (Arab Feature-Length Narrative Competition)
- First-time Lead Actress (Arab Feature-Length Narrative Competition)
- First-time Scriptwriter (Arab Feature-Length Narrative Competition)
- First-time Editor (Arab Feature-Length Documentary Competition)