Tickets for the screenings are now available for purchase through Hayy Cinema's official website.
Two Saudi short films — Salma Murad’s Matchstick and Zakaria Al-Bashir’s Laila — are slated for release at Hayy Cinema in Saudi Arabia, Jeddah. MAD Solutions is spearheading the distribution of these films, offering audiences a chance to delve into thought-provoking narratives on the big screen.
Both Matchstick and Laila shed light on the profound impact of mental illness on individuals, showcasing the talent and originality of Saudi filmmakers who contribute significantly to enriching the cinematic landscape of the country.
On April 18, audiences had the opportunity to experience both films together, followed by a lively Q&A session with their respective filmmakers, offering insights into the inspiration and creative process behind the shorts. Subsequent screenings of the films are scheduled for April 19, 20, 21, 25, and 26, providing multiple opportunities for audiences to engage with these compelling narratives.
Matchstick, produced by The Orange Attitude, garnered acclaim in the film festival circuit last year, earning the Best First Work Award and a cash prize of SAR 30,000 ($7997.34) at the Saudi Film Festival. Directed by Salma Murad and starring Naif Al-Daferi and Nawwaf Al-Daferi, this psychological drama delves into the internal conflict of Osama, a young man grappling with emotions and memories.
On the other hand, Laila offers an exploration of the challenges faced by a married woman named Laila, portrayed in a 16-minute drama that delves into her tumultuous life and quest for solace. Written by Sahar Sulaiman, Mohamed Bawarith, and Hazem Saleh, and directed by Zakaria Al-Bashir, the film stars Hams Bandar, Ammar Barashir, and Retaj Abdullah.
Laila premiered at the Zanzibar International Film Festival, captivating audiences with its emotional depth and performances, before being featured in the Saudi and Sharm El Sheikh film festivals, setting the stage for its commercial debut in the kingdom.
