Saudi Gazette reports that public cinema is back in Saudi Arabia. The Saudi film ‘Manahi’ was shown before a mixed-sex audience in Jeddah, and also in Taif. The article points out that the film showing was part of the Eid Al-Adha celebrations in the city, so I’m not sure—and the article does not make clear—whether the cinema wil l remain operational after the holidays. Nor does the article spell it out, but it’s pretty clear that this would not have happened without the support of the Governor of the Mecca Province, Pr. Khaled Al-Faisal. Pr. Khaled has the power to force certain kinds of change within his area of authority and has shown a willingness to do so.

Young Saudis are hoping that this is a permanent change as they’re tired of having to travel to foreign countries simply to watch a film on the big screen.

Public cinema after 30 years enthralls audience
Fouzia Khan

JEDDAH – After a long wait of 30 years, public cinema is back in Saudi Arabia. Using the occasion of Eid Al-Adha, Rowad Media and Kawthar Foundation and Production screened a show for the public at the King Abdul Aziz Cultural Center in Abraq Al-Raghama, attended by a large number of interested men and women who watched the comedy film “Manahi.”

“We haven’t had public cinema in Saudi Arabia for 30 years,” said one viewer. “That’s a long time, and we have missed it,” he added.

The 9-day festival began on Dec. 10 and two shows are being screened daily in Jeddah and Taif.

“On the opening night there was a flood of media personnel which made it just like a red carpet Hollywood premier,” said Fayez Al-Malki, the film’s main actor.

“I hope that this film will be a real commercial breakthrough in Saudi Arabia,” he said. “I am fully satisfied with the Rotana production and hope the film will be appreciated in Saudi Arabia, Egypt and around the world,” he added.
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