
Nicolas Cage
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In Conversation with the Saudi Pioneers Ibrahim Alhasawi and Meshal Almutairi
Director:
Two pioneers of Saudi cinema have played a crucial role in energizing the industry. Each has dedicated their talents to supporting young Saudi filmmakers, fostering creativity and innovation, and bringing untold stories to the screen. Their efforts have helped cinema tap into the wealth of experience already gained in theater and, above all, television. In this conversation, we explore the significance of traditional narratives crafted by exceptional actors, whose work has given young Saudi cinema a distinct identity. The contributions of two actors, formerly active in television series, are now working to elevate the role of actors in Saudi cinema. Ibrahim Alhasawi Ibrahim Alhasawi is a pioneering figure in Saudi drama and cinema. He is an actor, producer, and director having a career that spans over five decades. He began his journey in theater and wrote numerous colloquial poems, garnering numerous awards and honors throughout his career. Alhasawi is renowned for his complex and impactful roles. He has delivered exceptional performances in numerous television series such as "Tash Ma Tash," "Layla," and "Atr Al Jannah." In the realm of cinema, he has participated in over 11 films, several of which have won local, Gulf, and international awards. Among his most prominent cinematic participations, he appeared in the Bahraini film "Al Shajara Al Na’ima" (the sleeping tree) directed by Mohamedd Rashed Buali, and the Emirati film "Kabl An Nansa" (before We Forget) directed by Nawaf Al Janahi. Alhasawi has also shone in Saudi films such as "Al Masafa Sifr" (Zero Distance) directed by Abdulaziz Alshlahei, "Raven Song" directed by Mohammad Alsalman, and "Hajjan" directed by Abu Bakr Shawky. Today, he is collaborating once again with director Abdulaziz Alshlahei in the new film "Hobal," which is being screened at the fourth edition of the Red Sea International Film Festival. Meshal Almutairi Meshal Almutairi is a Saudi actor and producer who has contributed significantly to the vitality of Saudi cinema. He has produced numerous exceptional works, most notably series such as "Al Huboob" and "Om Al Qalayed," as well as programs like "Sheft Al Layl" and "Al Mashhad Al Akhir." Almutairi has also played leading roles in several films and series, including "Kayf Lhal," "Arba'un Yawman wa Laylah," and "Tash Ma Tash." At the fourth edition of the Red Sea International Film Festival, his films "Hobal" directed by Abdulaziz Alshlahei and "Holes" directed by Abdulmohsen Aldhabaan are being screened. Meshal has received numerous awards in recognition of his creativity, including the Best Actor award at the Saudi Film Festival in 2021.

SIMA’S SONG
Director: Roya Sadat
Afghanistan in 1972 is a cauldron of opposing political forces. Suraya, part of an influential political family, becomes head of the dominant Communist Party’s women’s organisation, believing it is the best hope for equal rights. Her friend Sima is sceptical of all politics and, as a talented musician, is dedicated to her traditional art and its romantic themes. Despite their differences, these two young women remain best friends through university, even when Sima marries and starts attending Muslim Youth meetings. When the army starts arresting Muslim activists, Suraya helps her friends escape to the mountains and the protection of the mujahadeen, but war follows them. The film is a marvellous testament to the courage and loyalty of Afghani women in the face of constant adversity.