Omani actress encouraged youth to follow their hearts and respect their audiences during an 'Actors Meetup' session at the SIFF.
As part of a discussion at the Sharjah International Film Festival for Children and Youth (SIFF) on day three, Omani actress Buthaina Al-Raisi emphasised that the road to success in the film industry is achieved by following one’s heart and respecting the audience.
In her address to the audience at Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre where SIFF 2022 continues until October 15 under the theme, ‘Think Film’, the actress explained that today, anyone can create a professional short film from the comfort of their home with a smartphone equipped with advanced editing, montage, and colour schemes apps. These films can then be streamed online on various platforms to showcase their talents and engage with viewers.
Discussing the type of content that can be created, the actress advised young filmmakers at SIFF: “Be original in your content; do not copy others or blindly follow trends. Even if that content is not new, find a different angle to make it unique. You must believe and respect your work and the audience, and you will succeed.”
She noted that the road to success is not easy and that obstacles will only make one stronger as he/she continues the journey.
Sharing her journey in the film industry, the Omani actress said that although she had enrolled in a university in her home country to study Information Technology, securing a seat at the Higher Institute of Dramatic Arts in Kuwait dramatically shifted her career path. “I had a tough choice to make when I was accepted to study in Kuwait. I ultimately followed my heart and started a new journey in a different country,” she said.
Al-Raisi also revealed how she began broadcasting live traditional game sessions with guests during the pandemic, which quickly garnered a huge following. As a word of caution to the young audiences at SIFF, she stated: “I always think hard before I venture online on a new platform like TikTok because anything I do might have repercussions that might destroy what I already built.”
