Saudi Film Festival has returned this past Thursday, May 4 for its ninth edition. Running until May 11, the entertainment-centric festival highlights all things Saudi filmmaking. From book signings to film screenings, here’s a recap of the first two days of the festival that brings together industry professionals.
The latest edition is presented by Saudi actors, Fay Fouad and Baraa Alem. Lending a helping hand in supporting Saudi cinema is the Red Sea Film Festival which is a sponsor for the festival.
The festival includes different elements that bridge together education with entertainment. Whether it’s the masterclasses such as Tips and Strategies in Film Marketing which is taking place on Sunday, May 7 or Marta Andreu’s masterclass held on May 5 discussing all things creative process.
When it comes to films, the festival is screening an eclectic range across various genres and filmmakers. From the narrative film ‘Yad Omy (My Mother’s Hand), the documentary, ‘Abtal el Khareq al Saudi (The Saudi Superheroes), or even the premiere of the animation, ‘Saleeg’; the festival has something for every film buff.
But that’s not all, the festival is taking the time to promote other forms of entertainment; the literary ones. The ninth edition of the festival also coincides with the kick-off of the Saafaa Publications, a newsletter launched in both English and Arabic during the film festival highlighting the Saudi cinema industry.
It’s also hosting book signings on everything from film criticism to the craft of Spanish director, Pedro Almodóvar.
This is only a look into the first two days, the rest of the festival is set to be jam-packed with festivities.
It’s important to note that what makes this festival stand out is that it truly hones in on the cinema industry and Saudi culture rather than focusing on the glitz factor.
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