Riyadh, November 8, 2024 – The second Film Criticism Conference officially kicked off yesterday in Riyadh, set to run until November 10. Organized by the Saudi Film Commission, this prestigious event has drawn a remarkable global presence, bringing together some of the most renowned filmmakers, critics, scholars, and cinephiles from around the world. Under the theme “Sound in Cinema,” the conference delves into the often-overlooked but vital role that sound plays in shaping the cinematic experience. It explores the profound impact sound has on storytelling, emotional engagement, and the broader film industry, inviting participants to examine its various facets from multiple critical perspectives.
The conference features a packed agenda, with panel discussions, workshops, and screenings designed to engage both professionals and cinema enthusiasts alike. Discussions are set to cover a wide range of sound-related topics, from film scores and sound effects to the integration of nature sounds in film, all of which contribute to the immersive experience that defines cinema as an art form. In addition to sound, the conference will explore the broader domain of film criticism, with a focus on how it serves as an essential tool for the growth and development of the industry. Experts and critics will share their knowledge and insights, engaging in thoughtful debates about the role of sound in enhancing the filmic narrative and influencing audience perception.
At the opening ceremony, a compelling introductory video set the tone for the event, outlining its objectives and highlighting past milestones in the Saudi film industry. Abdullah Al-Qahtani, CEO of the Saudi Film Commission, delivered a powerful speech reflecting on the importance of sound in cinema. Al-Qahtani emphasized that this year’s theme aligns with the commission's ongoing efforts to build a robust and sustainable film industry in Saudi Arabia, a vision that is strongly in line with Saudi Vision 2030. He stressed the importance of film criticism as an intellectual and artistic tool, capable of shaping the future of cinema by offering critical perspectives that open new pathways for creative expression. “The Saudi Film Commission is dedicated to establishing, developing, and sustaining a strong and vibrant film industry,” said Al-Qahtani, highlighting the commission’s commitment to empowering criticism as a means of illumination and progress for the industry.
The conference’s inaugural day also featured a speech by prominent Saudi director Abdullah Al-Mohaisen, who underscored the central role of film criticism in fostering creativity and growth in the cinematic world. “Film criticism relies on sentient, honest, and purposeful criticism. It is the dynamic driver of development and creativity for the director,” Al-Mohaisen remarked. He emphasized that cinema, at its core, is a message—a medium that communicates ideas, emotions, and stories long before it becomes a commercial product or art form. Al-Mohaisen’s remarks were followed by the screening of “Assassination of a City”, a groundbreaking Saudi documentary that has earned multiple international awards, offering attendees a chance to engage with a piece of cinema that exemplifies the very discussions taking place at the conference.
The conference is not only a platform for intellectual exchange but also an opportunity for practical engagement with cinema. In addition to the rich series of talks and discussions, participants will have access to a range of workshops, film screenings, and interactive exhibits. These sessions are designed to deepen the participants’ understanding of sound in film and provide hands-on experience with the tools and techniques used in modern sound design. This interactive component ensures that the conference is not merely theoretical but also immersive and enriching for those who wish to further explore the practical aspects of the film industry.
The Saudi Film Commission has positioned this event as part of its larger goal to vitalize and enrich the Kingdom’s film industry, an endeavor that includes the nurturing of local talent, the promotion of creative industries, and the enhancement of the Saudi film-watching experience. As part of its ongoing initiatives to improve the overall quality of cinema in the Kingdom, the commission recognizes the integral role of film criticism in shaping audience expectations and guiding filmmakers toward new horizons. The Film Criticism Conference stands as a testament to the commission’s vision of a thriving Saudi film industry, one that is rich in creative output and thoughtful dialogue.
As Saudi Arabia continues to make strides in the global film industry, this conference serves as another critical step in its journey to establish itself as a key player in both the regional and international cinematic landscapes. Through events like this, the Saudi Film Commission is not only supporting the development of a thriving film culture but is also helping to elevate the broader discourse around cinema, sound, and the art of film criticism. With Vision 2030 firmly guiding the Kingdom’s strategic development, the conference represents a forward-thinking initiative that brings together global expertise while empowering Saudi filmmakers and critics to lead the way in shaping the future of cinema in the region and beyond.