Lights, Camera, Action: Amr Alkahtani on Saudi Arabia's Film Revolution

Clock Icon Mar 22, 2019
A film tape roll, symbolizing Amr Alkahtani's journey from hobbyist to movie producer. (Source: Shutterstock)

Amr Alkahtani: From Hobbyist to Film Producer – A Journey into Movie Making. (Source: Shutterstock)

Saudi Arabia's entertainment industry is undergoing a dramatic transformation, fueled by the opening of cinemas, government support, and relaxed regulations. As Saudi Arabia aims to position itself as a hub for creative industries, trailblazers like Amr Alkahtani are helping shape the burgeoning film sector. In this exclusive interview with SaudiTimes, Alkahtani discusses the opportunities, challenges, and potential of Saudi cinema, reflecting on his own journey and contributions to the industry. 

 

 

Opportunities in Saudi Arabia's Entertainment Sector

Q: What Opportunities Exist for Filmmakers With Saudi Arabia’s Expanding Entertainment Sector?
A: The film industry in Saudi Arabia is gaining momentum. With cinemas opening and government support, there’s more incentive for producers to create meaningful content. Personally, I focus on films geared toward international audiences—intellectual works that document history for future generations. Blockbusters are not my focus; instead, I aim for films with cultural and artistic depth.

 

Saudi Cinema vs. Other Arab Cinemas

Q: How Does Saudi Cinema Compare to Other Arab Cinemas?
A: Other Arab countries have a head start, with well-established industries in production, acting, and scriptwriting. However, the Saudi film scene is rapidly evolving. Quality, not quantity, is what matters. Many Saudi filmmakers are producing exceptional works with compelling scripts, despite limited experience and institutional support. I want to highlight that there is a growing number of Saudis pursuing degrees in filmmaking, supported by scholarships abroad. Films like Wadjda, which he co-produced, demonstrate the potential for Saudi stories to resonate globally, showcasing cultural richness and creative talent.

 

The Producer's Role and Challenges

Q: What Is the Role of a Producer in Saudi Filmmaking, and What Challenges Do They Face?
A: A producer is the cornerstone of a film, handling everything from concept development to team assembly, production, and marketing," says Alkahtani.

In Saudi Arabia, early production was limited to TV series, advertisements, and documentaries. Today, we have greater freedom to explore diverse ideas, thanks to relaxed regulations and streamlined processes for filming permits. These changes have elevated the societal perception of filmmaking as a legitimate and respected profession. The industry's growth has also been supported by initiatives like the Saudi Film Commission, which fosters talent development and international collaborations.

 

Milestones: Wadjda and The Poetess

Q:  Can You Share Insights About Your First Production, Wadjda, and Its Impact on Saudi Cinema?
A: My first production was Wadjda, released in 2012. Haifa Al Mansour, the film’s director and scriptwriter, approached me with the concept. We secured financing and scouted locations across Saudi Arabia. The film was a milestone, showcasing Saudi talent on a global stage.

 

Q: How was producing The Poetess, a documentary, different from Wadjda?
A: Documentaries are unique because the script is often written after filming. The Poetess was directed by Stephanie Backhaus, a German filmmaker. It was an enriching collaboration that explored a powerful narrative.

 

The Future of Saudi Cinema

Q: What Is the Future of Saudi Cinema?
A: Saudi film production began 20 years ago. Since then, about 180 productions have emerged, with many achieving international recognition. Today, filmmaking is a respected profession, and the passion for storytelling is spreading rapidly. Saudi filmmakers are participating in workshops, writing scripts, and producing works that compete internationally. Saudi Arabia ’s cultural and geographical diversity provides a rich foundation for storytelling. With sustained governmental support and a new generation of talent, Saudi cinema has the potential to become a global force.

 

About Amr Alkhtani

Amr was born in Liverpool in 1972 and grew up in Riyadh. He began his professional journey as a library teacher at a boys' school in Riyadh before transitioning into the production industry. Over the course of approximately 15 years, Alkahtani has managed and produced an impressive body of work, including around 150 documentary films, 80 commercial projects, and 10 TV talk shows. 

As the co-producer of iconic Saudi films such as Wadjda and The Poetess, Alkahtani has played a pivotal role in shaping the narrative of Saudi cinema. His most notable contributions have garnered international acclaim, solidifying his status as a key figure in the industry.

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