Khaleej Times runs a very interesting piece by its Saudi correspondent on the growing Saudi film industry. The article cites the problems identified by several young Saudi filmmakers, but also points out their optimism. The filmmakers believe that Saudi Arabia needs to have its own voice on the global stage and that film is exactly the right medium through which it can be delivered. Several of the filmmakers note that the Saudi government makes it relatively easy to film in the country, but that social and cultural traditions sometimes get in the way. Worth reading the whole piece.

Saudi filmmakers face funding problems for projects
Habib Shaikh

MANY Saudi filmmakers believe that film and TV are strong media that Saudis need to get into and control. “Hollywood has been successful in influencing how people view the world and other cultures through their films, Saudis could also utilise the medium to correct negative image the world has of Muslims in general and Saudis in particular,” said Fahmi Farahat, a Saudi filmmaker based in California.

Farahat proposes to start an amateur Saudi Film Festival for the young on short films and documentaries. “In that way we give them the support to explore their creativity in a low budget at the same time showcase their talent,” he added.

Walid Jawad, another Saudi filmmaker based in Washington, is also on a mission to improve the image of Saudi Arabia to the world and in the West in particular through his short documentaries.

He said: “Documentaries are exceptionally effective if they are well done and if they create a buzz, he said. Although Saudi Arabia is the main source of funding for the electronic media in the Arab world including Egyptian films and TV shows, Saudi filmmakers are facing hardship in funding their small-scale projects.”

According to Jawad, the major reason behind the lack of funding and interest among Saudis is that Saudis do not realise that they have a responsibility. “Once that concept becomes a principle for Saudis to live by, then filmmakers can start putting a strategy to get funding for their projects that serve the image of Saudi Arabia,” he said. Farahat said that the lack of trust among Saudi sponsors in Saudi film producers and directors is another obstacle to funding. “Investors need to have confidence in our youth and take the risks,” he added.
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