The 'Arab Spectacular' programme this year is a vibrant showcase of innovative storytelling that reflects both the cultural heritage and contemporary experiences of the region.
The Red Sea International Film Festival (RSIFF) has unveiled five stellar films under its ‘Arab Spectacular,’ segment. This year’s selection comprises films from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Algeria, reinforcing the Festival’s commitment to elevating Arab cinematic narratives on a global stage.
The ‘Arab Spectacular’ programme this year is a vibrant showcase of innovative storytelling that reflects the region’s cultural heritage and contemporary experiences. Each film in the lineup offers a unique lens through which audiences can engage with the themes of identity, resilience, and the complexities of modern life, fostering a deeper understanding of the region’s rich narratives and cinematic artistry.
The selected films are: My Driver and I (KSA, directed by Ahd Kamel) harks back to 1980s and 90s Jeddah, where a Saudi girl and her Sudanese driver form a friendship which is tested when she starts to take the wheel; Hobal (KSA, directed by Abdulaziz Alshlahei) which portrays how a Bedouin family faces its fate in isolation in the middle of the desert; comedy film Lail Nahar (KSA) explores the lives of two contrasting musicians; Front Row (Algeria/France/USA, directed by Merzak Allouache) tells the story of an eventful day at the beach; and Abdo & Saneya (USA/Egypt, directed by Omar Bakry) sees a couple from rural Egypt immigrate to New York in search of a cure for their infertility.
Antoine Khalife, Director of Arab Programs & Film Classics for the RSIFF said: “We know that our stories and the quality of the way we tell them deserve a place alongside other international films, which is why we are working hard to support and nurture our region’s filmmakers, providing them with a prestigious platform to present their work to international audiences, and facilitating networking opportunities with industry leaders.
We are also particularly happy to welcome Merzak Allouch this year, a visionary of Algerian cinema, who will present his latest film Front Row. Additionally, Saudi cinema, central to this year’s Festival, will hold a place of honour with three gala film screenings which explore the richness of the Saudi cultural past and its complexities, as well as shed light on the impact of modern influences and shifting societal perceptions.
Some of the ‘Arab Spectacular’ films are international co-productions—highlighting the significance of collaboration in bringing our stories to life. The RSIFF serves as a key platform celebrating all things Arab, while also acting as a crucial hub for cultural exchange. It fosters dialogue between filmmakers, audiences, and critics from around the world, promoting a deeper understanding and appreciation of Arab culture through the art of cinema.”
