The Arab premiere of the film will take place as part of the Arab Spectacular Competition on December 4, 2023.
The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) and Film Clinic have released behind-the-scenes images from the filming of director Abu Bakr Shawky’s latest film, Hajjan. Shot in the scenic Tabuk region in the Northwestern part of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the release of these photos precedes the film’s Arab world premiere at the third edition of the Red Sea International Film Festival, scheduled from November 30 to December 9.
Competing in the Arab Spectacular Competition, Hajjan is set to make its first screening on Monday, December 4, at 05:30 PM at the Ritz Carlton.
Having made its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in September, Hajjan stands as the latest collaborative production between Ithra and Film Clinic. Produced by Mohamed Hefzy and Majed Z. Samman, co-produced by Rula Nasser, and with production services in Saudi Arabia provided by Yellow Camel, the film is distributed by Film Clinic-Indie Distribution in the Arab world. International distribution is overseen by Film Constellation.
Hajjan narrates the story of brothers Matar and Ghanim, inhabitants of the vast Saudi Arabian desert. Faced with tragedy, young Matar delves into camel racing to protect his camel, Hofira. Employed by the ruthless owner Jasser, Matar must go to great lengths to fight for Hofira’s life in this timeless coming-of-age drama. The film, written by Omar Shama, Farrej Al-Mugfel, and Abu Bakr Shawqi, features a talented cast including Abdul Mohsen Al-Nimr, Omar Al-Atawi, Al-Shaimaa Tayeb, Azzam Al-Nimr, Tolin Barboud, and Ibrahim Al-Hassawi.
Directed by Abu Bakr Shawky, the Egyptian-Austrian writer, and director, Hajjan marks his second feature film. His earlier works, including the short documentary The Colony and his debut film Yomuddin, have earned acclaim at festivals worldwide, with the latter premiering in the official competition of the Cannes Film Festival, receiving a Palme d’Or nomination, and winning the François Chalet Award.
