JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia — The film “My Driver and I” faced delays since its initial plans for production in 2016 due to Saudi Arabia’s longstanding cinema restrictions. However, as the nation continues to evolve, the film has now been showcased successfully at the Red Sea International Film Festival.
At the festival, Roula Dakheelallah, one of the stars of the film, received the Chopard Emerging Saudi Talent award. This recognition highlights the changing dynamics of Saudi Arabia’s film industry and reflects the country’s commitment to fostering local talent. “I have always dreamed of a moment like this,” Dakheelallah shared, noting that this role marks a significant step in her artistic journey.
Saudi Arabia’s cultural landscape has transformed significantly since the lifting of its cinema ban in 2018, a decision influenced by an intention to modernize and diversify the economy beyond oil. The government has invested in the film industry, creating training programs and construction of new theaters. Plans are underway for the establishment of 350 cinemas featuring more than 2,500 screens across the country, which are expected to bolster the local film sector.
While the Red Sea International Film Festival aims to place Saudi Arabia on the global cinema map, voices from international human rights communities express concerns. They argue that such investments are a way of diverting attention from the country’s human rights record, which remains a contentious issue. Critics like Lina al-Hathloul, a Saudi activist, have noted that the push for entertainment obscures the reality of life within the kingdom.
Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 reform plan drives this transformation, targeting economic diversification and cultural development. New facilities have been established, like Al Hisn Studios near Riyadh, which serve as significant production hubs. These studios offer various resources for filmmakers and encourage creativity in storytelling.
In the past few years, local media companies such as Telfaz11 have emerged, producing high-quality content that resonates within and beyond the region. Their partnership with streaming services like Netflix signals a willingness to tackle broader topics, demonstrating the evolution of narratives coming from Saudi cinema.
Despite these advancements, there are still challenges ahead. Many believe there are untold stories and lingering censorship concerns. No doubt, the road to fully expressing the Saudi narrative will require time and patience, as filmmakers grapple with personal and societal boundaries in their storytelling.
“My Driver and I” reflects this transformative era in Saudi filmmaking. The film, which delves into the connection between a driver and the child he cares for, initially faced hurdles due to its sensitive themes. Yet, it has come to signify the growth of women’s roles in front and behind the camera.
Dakheelallah expressed her optimism for the future of Saudi cinema, emphasizing the need for a thoughtful approach to the artistic movement currently underway. “We do not need to rush,” she affirmed, pointing to the importance of truth and authenticity in the evolving landscape of Saudi filmmaking.
