02-05-2025
Narration of history through visual medium
Muscat: The 29th Muscat International Book Fair has hosted several talks, including a session on Tuesday evening that drew documentary enthusiasts. The session, hosted by radio broadcaster Talal al Shatti, featured interviews with Bettany Hues, a broadcaster and documentary presenter who created "Treasures of Oman" as part of the "Treasures of the World" series and Friedrich Kluetsch, a documentary filmmaker behind "The House of Wonders," which explores migration in former times.
As they shared their experiences producing and presenting their chosen stories, they emphasised the importance of teamwork and the use of technology.
Kluetsch explained how technological effects helped create impact, but real visuals were crucial for evoking emotions.
Bettany emphasised the importance of light in filmmaking, saying, "We chased the light during the golden hours of early morning and evening. Drone technology has been a blessing for us filmmakers, especially in Oman's breathtaking landscapes." She further explained, "Along with light, sound is incredibly important. Making a film with the right intention is fundamental. Your film's success hinges on this." In her documentary, there is a scene where the team is on an Omani dhow off the coast of Musandam and the captain reads from the book of Ahmed bin Majid.
Narration of history through visual medium
"These texts are the living records of real people. Ahmed bin Majid was known as the Lion of the Sea," she shared during the dialogue session.
Regarding preserving cultural memory, Kluetsch praised Oman's efforts in balancing history and modernity. "History isn't far removed from us. People, problems and opportunities remain the same, even with modern technology like mobile phones," he observed.
When asked about future projects, Kluetsch expressed interest in exploring the Bronze Age, when Oman was known as Magan, the land of copper.
Bettany mentioned ongoing work on "Greater Cities" and expressed a desire to feature Muscat.
Kluetsch advised creating serial pieces and focusing on long-form storytelling, particularly for social media. He noted that young filmmakers excel in shorter formats but struggle with longer narratives.
For Bettany, a memorable moment was tasting fresh camel milk and hearing a local family's appreciation for camels.
Kluetsch found the House of Wonders and its legacy particularly captivating.
Narration of history through visual medium
When asked what Oman had taught them, Kluetsch reflected on the importance of patience and trust in God and people, while Bettany praised the hospitality and respect shown by Omani people towards guests.
Both emphasised the importance of women's roles in history, with Bettany highlighting the positive impact of documentary filmmaking in learning and promoting positivity.
Kluetsch stressed the need for flexibility in documentary production and the importance of central characters in storytelling.
After the session, Bettany shared her positive experience at the Muscat International Book Fair, expressing admiration for the diverse exhibits and brilliant people he had met.
Kluetsch, a returning attendee, praised the fair's global reach and its ability to connect people from all continents.
Both Bettany and Kluetsch expressed hopes of translating their books into Arabic for wider publication.
PHOTOS BY KHALFAN AL RUZAIQY
