Saudi Film Confex Highlights Kingdom's Rising Influence in Filmmaking Industry
Major companies, global stars gather as Saudi Arabia showcases its growing creative economy.
The Saudi Film Confex, held from October 22 to 25 in Riyadh, drew major Saudi companies and global stars, highlighting the Kingdom's burgeoning influence in the filmmaking industry and its expanding creative economy.
Hollywood actor Johnny Depp delivered a masterclass titled "The Genius of Embodying Different Roles," hosted by Saudi actress and filmmaker Fatima Al-Banawi.
The session provided attendees with insights into Depp's artistic process, his approach to character development, and lessons learned over his four-decade career.The event, now in its third year, has become a key platform for the Kingdom's creative industries, bringing together local talent, international studios, and investors.
This year featured an expanded exhibition, workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities.
Zaid Shaker, acting executive director of Film AlUla, described Saudi filmmaking as "nothing short of transformative," noting that after a few years from being nascent, the industry has become dynamic.
Film AlUla, one of the driving forces behind this transformation, provides infrastructure, incentives, and natural backdrops attracting both local and international productions.Film AlUla's collaborations extend across Saudi Arabia's creative ecosystem, including partnerships with the Red Sea Fund that supported co-production projects like "Hijra," filmed entirely in AlUla.
Shaker emphasized the growth powered by organic creative momentum and strategic national investment, citing achievements such as the recognition of Saudi filmmakers at international platforms.Saudi Entertainment Academy (SEA), making its debut appearance, attracted significant interest from attendees and professionals.
Founded in 2019, SEA offers training programs leading to employment in entertainment and event management sectors, expanding its curriculum to match the rapid growth of Saudi Arabia's entertainment landscape.The success of Saudi Film Confex reflects the nation's broader cultural transformation under Vision 2030, aiming to diversify the economy through film and entertainment.
The event fosters collaboration, nurtures local talent, and attracts global expertise, positioning Saudi Arabia as a regional hub for cinema.
Hollywood actor Johnny Depp delivered a masterclass titled "The Genius of Embodying Different Roles," hosted by Saudi actress and filmmaker Fatima Al-Banawi.
The session provided attendees with insights into Depp's artistic process, his approach to character development, and lessons learned over his four-decade career.The event, now in its third year, has become a key platform for the Kingdom's creative industries, bringing together local talent, international studios, and investors.
This year featured an expanded exhibition, workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities.
Zaid Shaker, acting executive director of Film AlUla, described Saudi filmmaking as "nothing short of transformative," noting that after a few years from being nascent, the industry has become dynamic.
Film AlUla, one of the driving forces behind this transformation, provides infrastructure, incentives, and natural backdrops attracting both local and international productions.Film AlUla's collaborations extend across Saudi Arabia's creative ecosystem, including partnerships with the Red Sea Fund that supported co-production projects like "Hijra," filmed entirely in AlUla.
Shaker emphasized the growth powered by organic creative momentum and strategic national investment, citing achievements such as the recognition of Saudi filmmakers at international platforms.Saudi Entertainment Academy (SEA), making its debut appearance, attracted significant interest from attendees and professionals.
Founded in 2019, SEA offers training programs leading to employment in entertainment and event management sectors, expanding its curriculum to match the rapid growth of Saudi Arabia's entertainment landscape.The success of Saudi Film Confex reflects the nation's broader cultural transformation under Vision 2030, aiming to diversify the economy through film and entertainment.
The event fosters collaboration, nurtures local talent, and attracts global expertise, positioning Saudi Arabia as a regional hub for cinema.
