Jomana Al-Rashid, the dynamic Chief of the Red Sea Film Foundation, is spearheading Saudi Arabia’s ambitious plans to become a global cinematic powerhouse. Under her leadership, the foundation has significantly contributed to the growth of the Saudi film industry, supporting numerous projects and fostering local talent. Al-Rashid’s vision is to transform Saudi Arabia into a hub for filmmaking, with a focus on both commercial and indie films, and to use cinema as a tool for cultural expression and social transformation.
Transforming Saudi Cinema
Since the lifting of the cinema ban in 2017, Saudi Arabia has seen a rapid transformation in its film industry. The Red Sea Film Foundation, under Jomana Al-Rashid’s leadership, has played a pivotal role in this evolution. The foundation has supported over 250 films, providing funding and resources to filmmakers at various stages of production. This support has enabled Saudi films to gain international recognition, with several being showcased at prestigious film festivals.
The foundation’s efforts have not only boosted the local film industry but also attracted international filmmakers to Saudi Arabia. The establishment of the first arthouse cinema in Riyadh is a testament to the growing interest in diverse forms of storytelling. Al-Rashid believes that good storytelling transcends genres, and the foundation is committed to supporting films that offer unique perspectives and narratives.
The rapid growth of the Saudi film industry is also reflected in the increasing number of Saudi films being selected for international film festivals. This year, the film “Noura” became the first Saudi film to be selected for the Cannes Film Festival, marking a significant milestone for the industry. The foundation’s support has been instrumental in achieving such milestones, and Al-Rashid is optimistic about the future of Saudi cinema.
International Recognition and Support
The Red Sea Film Foundation’s efforts have garnered international recognition, with Saudi films making their mark on the global stage. The foundation’s support for Arab filmmakers has been particularly noteworthy, with several films from the region receiving critical acclaim. At the Venice Film Festival, six Arab films backed by the foundation were showcased, highlighting the foundation’s role in promoting regional cinema.
Jomana Al-Rashid’s vision extends beyond just supporting films; she aims to create a sustainable ecosystem for the film industry in Saudi Arabia. This includes developing infrastructure, providing training and resources for filmmakers, and fostering collaborations with international film institutions. The foundation’s new headquarters in Jeddah’s historic old town of Al Balad is set to become a hub for cinematic activities, further cementing Saudi Arabia’s position in the global film industry.
The foundation’s initiatives have also contributed to the growth of the Saudi theatrical box office, which has doubled since the pandemic and is on track to reach the billion-dollar mark by 2030. This growth is a testament to the increasing popularity of cinema in Saudi Arabia and the foundation’s efforts to make films accessible to a wider audience.
Future Prospects and Challenges
Looking ahead, Jomana Al-Rashid is focused on continuing the momentum and addressing the challenges that come with rapid growth. One of the key challenges is balancing the commercial and artistic aspects of filmmaking. While there is a demand for commercially successful films, Al-Rashid emphasizes the importance of supporting indie films that offer unique and meaningful stories.
The foundation is also working on expanding its reach and impact by collaborating with international film festivals and institutions. These collaborations aim to provide Saudi filmmakers with more opportunities to showcase their work and gain exposure on the global stage. Al-Rashid believes that such collaborations are crucial for the growth and development of the Saudi film industry.
Another challenge is building a robust infrastructure to support the growing film industry. This includes developing state-of-the-art production facilities, providing training programs for aspiring filmmakers, and creating a supportive environment for creative expression. The foundation is committed to addressing these challenges and ensuring that Saudi Arabia becomes a leading destination for filmmakers from around the world.
