Saudi Film Commission announces third annual Film Criticism Conference

Broadcast Pro

5 days ago

This year's theme encourages reflection on how cinema represents 'place' not just as a physical location, but as a vessel for identity, storytelling and shared visual memory.
Saudi Film Commission has announced the launch of the third annual Film Criticism Conference, set to take place under the theme 'Cinema: the Art of Place.' This year's edition will unfold across three cultural centres, beginning in Asir in August, followed by Qatif in October and concluding in Riyadh in November, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
Positioned as more than just a traditional event, the conference is part of the Commission's broader vision to establish an inclusive, interactive platform for film critics, researchers, filmmakers and emerging Saudi talents. It aims to deepen the intellectual engagement with cinema in the Kingdom and nurture a critical discourse around it.
The programme will feature a variety of components, including educational sessions, hands-on workshops and curated art exhibitions. These events are designed to provide both practical skills and theoretical insights, enriching the local cinematic ecosystem.
Central to this year's theme is an exploration of the relationship between cinema and place, viewing location not merely as a backdrop, but as a narrative force, a marker of identity and a visual expression that can either ground stories in reality or elevate them into the realm of imagination. The conference will open space for diverse critical and philosophical interpretations of how 'place' functions within film, inviting voices that examine its symbolic, reflective and conceptual roles.
By focusing on this theme, the event continues to evolve as a hub for critical engagement, reaffirming its importance in the regional cultural landscape. Last year's conference drew more than 10,000 attendees from over 30 countries and featured contributions from more than 35 local and international organisations, alongside prominent critics, directors and scholars, an indication of its growing impact and international relevance.