The Red Sea International Film Festival has announced that it has selected 19 films to participate in the “New Saudi Cinema” program in the Short Films category. All films are between 5 minutes and 44 minutes long, and discuss topics related to countering extremism. Social adaptation and coping with interpersonal conflicts.
Films selected in this year’s Short Film category:
* “Khaled Al-Sheikh: Between the Thorns of Art and Politics,” by director Jamal Qutbi, is a documentary that explores the journey of Bahraini artist Khaled Al-Sheikh after leaving the world of politics to study music.
* “The Last Winter” by director Haider Daoud is a poignant documentary that follows the director and his friend Mohsen as they suffer from homelessness during a harsh Scandinavian winter while reminiscing about their homeland, Saudi Arabia.
* “105 Street,” directed by director Abdul Rahman Al-Jandal, is inspired by the true story of two Saudi policemen, Marwan and Nasser, who confront an ISIS cell in Riyadh.
* Director Tafar Al Shehri’s “Shunt” revolves around the life of a remote worker whose dreams slowly fade due to isolation.
* Director Hania Bakshwain’s film “The Journey” tells the story of Aaliya, a mother and Uber driver who faces social challenges with the burdens and responsibilities of life placed on her shoulders.
* Director Rima Al Majeed’s “Basin” revolves around the story of Alia, who faces her inner fears as she sets out to achieve her hidden passion of becoming a screenwriter.
* “I’m Fine” by director Faisal Al-Zahrani. The film tells the captivating story of a mute boy, Khair, and his toy friend Zadar, exploring their experiences of loss and death.
* “Expanded Intensity” by director Sultan Rabi. Its events revolve around Samar trying to get some sleep after spending a night.
* “Come Come” by director Durr Jamzoom revolves around Dana, a spoiled 17-year-old girl who learns to control and manage her emotions by playing on the beach with her friends and spending vacations.
* Director Afnan Bhavyan’s movie “Salik” narrates Hajar’s adventure while cooking salik and turns it into a special and memorable experience shared by her neighbors.
* “Monster from the Sky”, directed by Maryam Ghayat, tells the adventure story of a playful fish who is on a mission to save his fellow sea creatures from a deadly monster.
* “In Something” by director Abbas Hamid Al-Din tells the poignant story of two brothers searching for happiness amid the chaos of a war-torn region.
* Director Hasan Saeed’s movie “Antidote”. The events of the film revolve around Ali, a popular music-loving young man who gives his favorite singer his latest record after losing his voice.
* “The Old School” by director Abdullah Al-Qamis. The film narrates the plight of a hero and his efforts to adapt to his new work environment after a long time.
* “Art Black” movie directed by Abdel Rahman Badawi. The film revolves around About, a creative designer who faces pressure to complete a project within a certain time frame.
* Director Jonah Al-Zahrani’s “The Last Thread” tells the story of a woman’s life and her constant efforts to overcome the constraints that limit her creativity.
* “The Feet of Salem” by director Talal Al-Mused. The film tells the story of two friends who take an unexpected turn when they start a new experience.
* “Jamil the Happy” by director Osama Khalifa. The film presents an inspiring story about the determination of a “dumb” to land a position as a happiness specialist in a prestigious company.
* “Hadi Al-Ais” by director Abdullah Saherdi is a documentary that parallels the beauty of the camel, shedding light on the customs and traditions of Saudi culture, connecting the past with the present and connecting the Saudis. People historically, geographically and emotionally.
Speaking at the event, Mohammed Al Turki, CEO of Red Sea Film Foundation, said: “The new Saudi Cinema Program reflects our continued commitment to supporting Saudi Arabian cinematic talent. Saudi Cinema.”
For his part, New Saudi Cinema Program Director Mohi Khari said: “At the Red Sea Festival, we want to represent Saudi cinema and see its growth and brilliance in every session of the festival. So New Saudi Cinema is a program that wants to present diverse and inspiring stories characterized by creativity and innovation.”
