Latest news with #SaudiFilmCommission
Broadcast Pro
3 hours ago
- Business
- Broadcast Pro
Saudi Film Commission highlights national cinema at SXSW London
As part of its participation the commission will screen a selection of short Saudi films under the Saudi Film Nights initiative. The Saudi Film Commission has participated in the first-ever European edition of the South by Southwest (SXSW) Festival, which is taking place in London until June 7, 2025. The event, known for gathering leading professionals across the creative industries, offers a global platform for innovation and collaboration through a wide range of programming, including film and TV screenings, exhibitions, panel discussions, live performances and networking opportunities, according to a report by Saudi Press Agency. As part of its contribution, the Commission will present a curated programme of short Saudi films under the 'Saudi Film Nights' initiative, designed to introduce international audiences to Saudi storytelling and support the global visibility of emerging national talent. In addition, the Commission will host a panel discussion titled 'Empowering the Film Industry in Saudi Arabia: From Vision to Reality.' The session will delve into cinema's role in shaping national identity, preserving heritage, and advancing Saudi content as a powerful cultural tool. Inside the Saudi pavilion, visitors will find an exhibition highlighting the achievements of the Kingdom's burgeoning film industry. Featured works include films that have achieved notable box office success, been selected for international film festivals, or received global accolades—emphasising the sector's rapid growth and increasing international recognition. The Saudi Film Commission will be joined by several other creative bodies within the Kingdom, including the Music Commission, the Culinary Arts Commission, the Fashion Commission, and MOCX, offering a comprehensive display of Saudi Arabia's diverse cultural expressions. This collaborative presence at SXSW London reflects the Film Commission's strategic efforts to elevate the Kingdom's profile in global cinema, foster cross-cultural dialogue, and position Saudi Arabia as a leading creative hub in the region.
Arab News
5 hours ago
- Business
- Arab News
Saudi Arabia makes bold debut at SXSW film festival in London
DUBAI: The SXSW Film Festival has begun in London, with the Saudi Film Commission hosting a series of exciting cultural events. For the latest updates, follow us on Instagram @ Originating in Austin, Texas, this is the South by Southwest festival's first edition in London — and notably, the Kingdom's debut at the renowned indie film showcase, the Saudi Press Agency reported recently. The Saudi Film Commission, in collaboration with SXSW, will present a curated selection of short films as a part of the 'Saudi Film Nights' initiative. Under the umbrella of Vision 2030, this program supports the Kingdom's broader effort to diversify its economy, with particular emphasis on growing its entertainment sector. The Kingdom's pavilion, known as The Sadu House, will also spotlight contributions from the Music Commission, Culinary Arts Commission, and Fashion Commission, showcasing Saudi Arabia's rich and diverse cultural landscape to a global audience. In addition, the commission will host a panel discussion titled 'Empowering the Film Industry in Saudi Arabia: From Vision to Reality.' The session will delve into cinema's role in shaping national identity, preserving heritage, and advancing Saudi content as a powerful cultural tool. Each day of the festival will feature a showcase of emerging Saudi talent. On June 3, for example, SXSW attendees will experience a taste of Saudi hip-hop with performances by SHANCOTY, and JEED — artists known for their unique blend of hip-hop flair, Afrobeat influences, and slow R&B tones. On June 4, the Kingdom will shift gears and present its underground heavy music scene with performances by death metal bands Wasted Land, Sijeel, and Gimmix, marking a bold introduction of Saudi rock to the SXSW stage. In addition to performances, festivalgoers can attend cultural panels featuring industry professionals from across the Arab world. Topics include female leadership, entrepreneurial ambition, and the evolution of Saudi Arabia's film industry. The opening panel on June 3 is titled 'Vision 2030: Cultural Opportunities for Social and Economic Transformation,' which will explore the potential of Saudi Arabia's cultural power. Day two will feature a session 'Fashion Future Platform: How Data Informs Investment Decisions,' offering a deep dive into the intersection of fashion and data-driven innovation. Another session on day two, 'WWD Female Empowerment – Challenges Facing Women Creatives in a Male-Dominated World,' will spotlight the obstacles and breakthroughs for women in the creative sector. Finally, day three will have a panel 'Sustainability – Challenges of Creating Green Fashion and Beauty in a Throwaway World,' which will underscore the need for sustainability in the industry.
CairoScene
7 hours ago
- Entertainment
- CairoScene
Saudi Film Commission to Showcase Saudi Cinema at SXSW London
Spotlighting homegrown talent, the Saudi Film Commission heads to SXSW London with screenings, talks, and exhibitions The Saudi Film Commission is set to participate in the first European edition of the South by Southwest (SXSW) Festival, which will take place in London from June 2nd to the 7th. Traditionally held in Austin, Texas, SXSW is known for its cross-industry focus on film, music, and innovation, drawing global attention for its platforming of creative and emerging talent. The Saudi Commission, joined by representatives from the Music, Culinary Arts, and Fashion Commissions, will spotlight a range of creative sectors through panels, screenings, and exhibitions. The film programme includes a selection of short films curated under the 'Saudi Film Nights' banner, showcasing local storytelling and emerging filmmakers. A featured panel titled 'Empowering the Film Industry in Saudi Arabia: From Vision to Reality' will explore the development of the national film industry and its growing role in supporting cultural identity and economic diversification.
Asharq Al-Awsat
2 days ago
- Business
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Saudi Film Commission to Showcase Cultural Power of Cinema at 1st European Edition of SXSW in London
The Saudi Film Commission is participating in the inaugural European edition of the SXSW Festival, taking place in London from June 2 to 7. SXSW is a prestigious global platform that brings together a select group of professionals and experts from various creative sectors through a variety of events, including panel discussions, musical and comedy performances, film and television screenings, exhibitions, technical competitions, and opportunities for professional development and partnership building. The Commission's participation includes screening a selection of short Saudi films under the 'Saudi Film Nights' initiative, with the aim of showcasing Saudi storytelling and empowering national talent for international audiences. The Commission is also organizing a panel session titled 'Empowering the Film Industry in Saudi Arabia: From Vision to Reality,' which will explore the role of cinema in shaping national identity, preserving cultural heritage, and supporting local content as a tool of soft power. Within the Saudi pavilion, the Commission is showcasing the Kingdom's cinematic achievements through an exhibition featuring films that have sold over 250,000 tickets at the box office, participated in prestigious international festivals, or won global awards. This underscores the growth of the Saudi film industry and its rising prominence on the international stage. The Saudi Film Commission is part of the joint Saudi pavilion, which includes other creative sector entities such as the Music Commission, the Culinary Arts Commission, the Fashion Commission, and MOCX. Together, they present a comprehensive view of the Kingdom's rich and diverse cultural landscape. This participation underscores the Film Commission's commitment to expanding Saudi Arabia's global presence, empowering creative talent, and positioning the Kingdom as a regional leader in the cinema industry.
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
New Jax Film Studios in Ryadh Unveiled at Cannes by Saudi Film Commission
The Saudi Film Commission has unveiled a new a state-of-the-art production complex in the capital city of Riyadh that will complete construction later this year. The sprawling facility, which is called Jax Film Studios and located in the heart of Riyadh, will feature two 16,000-square-foot sound stages as well as a virtual production stage equipped with Sony's latest LED screen technology. More from Variety Sundance-Winning 'Cactus Pears' Director Rohan Kanawade Signs With Cinetic Media (EXCLUSIVE) Les Studios de Paris, Where 'Jackie' and 'The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon' Filmed, Positions Itself as One Stop Shop for International Productions Polish Talents Continue to Rise as Industry Eyes Overhaul to Incentive Scheme: 'We Need a System Equal to the Needs of Poland' The new Saudi studios also include a private screening room, reception and meeting spaces, production prep areas, dining zones, and a dedicated VIP lounge. Jax Film Studios, which were unveiled at the Cannes Film Festival, will 'offer immediate access to the capital's five-star hotels, international airport, high-end dining, and a growing ecosystem of creative and technical talent,' according to a statement. 'Within a 20-minute radius, filmmakers can access everything required to support their work, from local crews to post-production services,' it added. 'Jax Film Studios represents a cornerstone in our strategy to develop a world-class film infrastructure in Saudi Arabia,' said Abdullah Al-Qahtani, CEO of the Saudi Film Commission, in the statement. 'As we become one of the region's premier production hubs, this facility is built to meet the highest international standards – empowering local creatives while attracting global talent,' he noted. Commented Abduljalil Alnasser, general manager of sector development and investment attraction at the Saudi Film Commission: 'With Jax Film Studios, we are introducing one of the world's most advanced and largest virtual production stages, powered by Sony's latest innovations, unlocking limitless creative possibilities.' The new Saudi studios announcement follows news earlier this month that Saudi Arabia's Film AlUla – the film commission for the swathe of northwest Saudi Arabia that comprises a lush oasis and vast sandstone canyons – signed a deal with The MBS Group, which comprises Manhattan Beach Studios – home to James Cameron's 'Avatar' sequels – that will exclusively manage and operate their state-of-the-art AlUla Studios. Neom, which is the site of Saudi's futuristic city in the making, also has spanking new film production facilities. Saudi Arabia offers a 40%-plus cash rebate on international film and TV productions. Ever since it lifted its 35-year-old religion-related ban on cinema in 2017, Saudi has been experiencing a boom in all aspects of film industry activity, becoming the Middle East and North Africa's top-grossing territory in terms of theatrical box office returns. Attracting international film and TV productions is clearly a key part of this government-driven effort. Best of Variety New Movies Out Now in Theaters: What to See This Week Emmy Predictions: Talk/Scripted Variety Series - The Variety Categories Are Still a Mess; Netflix, Dropout, and 'Hot Ones' Stir Up Buzz Oscars Predictions 2026: 'Sinners' Becomes Early Contender Ahead of Cannes Film Festival
