- The “Directors’ Program” offers an intensive week-long learning experience to nurture rising filmmaking talents
- World-renowned director Spike Lee to share his extensive cinematic expertise with the next generation of storytellers
Red Sea Labs, one of the flagship programs under the Red Sea Film Foundation, has announced the launch of the Directors’ Programme – a transformative, week-long learning experience to be led by acclaimed filmmaker Spike Lee. Taking place in Jeddah from 29 April to 3 May 2025, the programme brings together emerging filmmakers from Saudi Arabia, the Arab world, Asia, and Africa for an intensive exploration of the art of directing under the guidance of one of cinema’s most influential voices.
The Directors’ Programme will bring together 15 promising filmmakers from Saudi Arabia, the Arab region, Asia, and Africa. Participants will embark on a transformative journey filled with masterclasses, workshops, and personalized mentorship sessions, all led by Spike Lee, who will share invaluable insights from his decades-long career. Known for his bold vision and powerful storytelling, Lee’s contributions have shaped modern cinema and tackled critical social and human issues with artistic depth.
This initiative reflects the Red Sea Film Foundation’s commitment—through Red Sea Labs—to empowering creative voices by facilitating direct engagement with leading international filmmakers, and by equipping participants with the professional tools and creative guidance required to advance their careers.
Shivani Pandya Malhotra, Managing Director of the Red Sea Film Foundation, commented: “Welcoming Spike Lee back to Jeddah to lead the inaugural edition of our landmark Directors’ Programme is a groundbreaking moment. This is an extraordinary opportunity for emerging filmmakers and writers to be inspired and challenged, as Spike Lee brings his unparalleled vision and demystifies the craft of directing with insight, passion, and purpose.”
On the occasion, Ryan Ashore, Head of Red Sea Labs, added: “The Directors’ Programme marks a bold step forward for the Labs in our mission to nurture regional talent and connect them with the global filmmaking community. Spike Lee’s participation sets a powerful precedent—his legacy and perspective offer participants with a rare, first-hand opportunity to understand the craft and conviction that define great cinema.
As the educational arm of the Red Sea Film Foundation, Red Sea Labs has supported hundreds of emerging filmmakers from around the world through its specialised programmes, which span all stages of the filmmaking process—from script development to sound and post-production. With the launch of this new initiative, Red Sea Labs reaffirms its mission by offering a distinctive opportunity under the guidance of a globally celebrated cinematic figure.
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