Netflix and Saudi Arabian production and financing group Telfaz11 are banding together to offer eight new films. The exciting partnership will give Netflix members around the world a chance to watch films that offer insight into Saudi and Arab culture. The mixed range of films, which will shine the spotlight on the Kingdom’s knack for comedy, as well as its sensitivities and creativity, are set to appeal to the 195 million diverse members that rely on the streaming giant for entertainment, wherever they live. The first of the films, which are all developed and produced by Telfaz11, is scheduled for a late 2021 release.
“Great stories can come from anywhere and be loved everywhere. We are expanding our library of Saudi content and showcasing the beauty of Saudi storytelling by joining forces with its creators to produce authentic and intriguing stories that will resonate with both Arab and global audiences,” Nuha El Tayeb, Director, Content Acquisitions, Middle East, North Africa and Turkey at Netflix, said. “We hope that Telfaz’s work will offer Netflix members around the world a chance to experience Saudi culture, humour and art.”
Telfaz11’s CEO and Co-Founder Alaa Fadan also expressed elation about teaming up with the leading streaming service, saying it proves Telfaz11’s success, as well as that of the region’s “burgeoning production ecosystem.” He added the movies will “showcase for global audiences the incredible culture, locations and talent that exists within both our region and the Telfaz11 filmmaker network.”
This isn’t the first time Telfaz11 and Netflix have collaborated, however. The unsurprising second partnership comes after the incredible success of award-winning film collection effort,“Six Windows in the Desert.”
Telfaz11 was established by Alaa Yousef Fadan and Ali Kalthami, who has written, directed and produced several films, including “Wasati,” part of the “Six Windows in the Desert” collection. Ibrahim Khairallah, one of the four comedians representing the Arab world in Netflix’s “Comedians of the World,” is also one of the founders.
The successful group, which hopes to meet the strong need for creative expression in Saudi and its neighbouring countries, first launched on YouTube, posting attention-grabbing content. This included the “No Woman, No Drive” video back in 2013, which was a catalyst in pushing the conversation about women being allowed to drive in the country forward. Now recognised for introducing contemporary, original and impactful storytelling in the Arab world, Telfaz11 has undeniably influenced pop culture in Saudi Arabia via its relatable and interesting content.
