This week marked the fourth installment of the Gulf Cinema Festival in Riyadh, bringing together notable figures and promising talents from the developing film scene of the region. One of them is Omani director Muzna Almusafer, whose work "Clouds" is vying for the coveted SR50,000 ($13,300) shorts prize. Set against the backdrop of southern Oman, the movie explores the story of a widower and war veteran who struggles with the conflict between his own morality and society expectations.
#WATCH: Leading lights and rising stars from the region’s blossoming film industry have been gathering this week at the fourth #Gulf Cinema Festival in #Riyadh https://t.co/FewYCulG1d pic.twitter.com/Yy8y2vpwLv
— Arab News (@arabnews) April 17, 2024
Almusafer described the arduous process of writing this story, saying it started as an idea to tell a story that spoke to her authentically and profoundly based on her personal experiences. She acknowledges the significance of the connections forged and the knowledge gained throughout this process, stating that regardless of the outcome, the experience itself is a triumph.
Reflecting on the cinematic landscapes of Oman and Saudi Arabia, Almusafer emphasizes the reciprocal flow of knowledge and inspiration, claiming that having the ability to tell compelling stories is what distinguishes excellence rather than having an edge over others.
She attributes the success of the regional film industry to two pivotal factors: financial backing and unwavering dedication. Almusafer stresses the importance of funding in initiating projects and sustaining the creative process, alongside an enduring passion that propels artists forward.
Musab Alamri, a critic and director, heralds a transformative shift in the regional cinema industry, pointing to Saudi Arabia's rise to the top of box office receipts, surpassing former leaders like the UAE. He highlights the evolution of funding opportunities in Saudi Arabia, which has catalyzed the industry's growth and global recognition.
Alamri cites exemplary works like "Norah," supported by initiatives such as the Daw program, which received acclaim on the international stage, as indicative of the industry's strides. Saudi Arabia's film industry continues to thrive despite a decline in feature production throughout the Gulf, as evidenced by its consistent releases and growing recognition at international film festivals.
Anticipating a trajectory towards self-sufficiency in film production within the next decade, Alamri envisions Saudi cinema making significant waves at prestigious global events. The actor Baraa Alem notes how government programs, festivals, and independent filmmakers contribute to the industry's richer cultural tapestry.
As the Gulf Film Festival draws to a close, Alem underlines its pivotal role in fostering community, creativity, and dialogue within the regional cinematic sphere, contributing to its continual evolution and enrichment. He honours the common cultural history that links filmmakers in the Gulf, promoting a dynamic and interdependent artistic environment.
