Source Credit: Arab News
The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) will host the 11th Saudi Film Festival from April 17–24, 2025. The Saudi Cinema Association is in charge of organizing the festival, with assistance from the Ministry of Culture's Film Commission. The deadline for feature, short, and documentary film submissions to the festival is January 5, 2025.
About Ithra
As a leading cultural hub in Saudi Arabia, Ithra is committed to inspiring creativity and intellectual growth. Through exhibitions, workshops, and performances, it provides a dynamic space for individuals to engage with art, culture, and innovation.
About the Saudi Film Festival
Held annually at Ithra, the Saudi Film Festival is a premier platform showcasing local talent and fostering the Kingdom’s film industry. With screenings, competitions, and workshops, it aims to cultivate the next generation of filmmakers and position Saudi cinema on the global stage.
Venue
The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) in Dhahran will host the festival from April 17 to 23.
Theme
This year's intriguing theme is "Cinema of Identity," which will examine how film reflects and shapes cultural, national, and personal identities. The official tagline for this year is "Stories Seen and Told."
Key points
- The film festival, which is being organized by the Cinema Association with sponsorship from the Film Commission and in collaboration with Ithra, will showcase a varied lineup of foreign and Arab films, with a particular emphasis on Japanese cinema.
- Attendees may anticipate stimulating films, perceptive seminars, and lively debates that explore the complex facets of identity in the contemporary world this year.
Hani Al-Mulla, Executive Director of the Cinema Association, emphasized the festival’s role in advancing Saudi cinema, stating, “This festival is a key driver of growth, fostering creativity and cultural exchange to empower filmmakers and enhance Saudi cinema’s global presence.”
Beyond Film Screenings
The festival will offer a variety of interactive activities, including workshops for children and families, immersive experiences, and an exclusive membership program. Members will gain access to special screenings, workshops, and networking opportunities with industry experts.
Spotlight on Japanese Cinema
This year’s Saudi Film Festival will highlight Japanese cinema, featuring screenings of acclaimed films and interactive sessions designed to encourage cultural dialogue and collaboration between Saudi and Japanese filmmakers.
Mansour Al-Badran, the festival's deputy director, stated, "We are proud to continue our collaboration with the Cinema Association in organizing this important festival." "The Saudi Film Festival provides an influential platform for showcasing the remarkable growth of Saudi cinema, and Ithra is committed to supporting this vibrant industry by providing a conducive environment for filmmakers to thrive."
