Riyadh, October 11, 2024 — During his participation in the Saudi Film Confex held in Riyadh, Prince Turki bin Faisal bin Abdulaziz emphasized the vital role of cinema and film in fostering cultural exchange and interaction among diverse civilizations. Engaging in a discussion session focused on culture, films, and soft diplomacy, the Prince articulated how films serve as a window through which the world can gain insight into Saudi culture and the rich civilizations of various nations.
Reflecting on the evolution of film accessibility in Saudi Arabia, Prince Turki recalled the pivotal moment 50 years ago when film viewing began to permeate Saudi society through television. This development played a crucial role in introducing Saudi culture to the broader world and vice versa. He highlighted the adage, "A picture is worth a thousand words," underscoring the power of visual storytelling in bridging cultural gaps.
The Saudi Film Confex was attended by key figures including Minister of Culture and Chairman of the Film Commission, Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, and Film Commission CEO Abdullah bin Nasser Al-Qahtani, alongside a diverse array of Saudi, Arab, and international artists, producers, and industry specialists. During the session, Prince Turki shared his personal experiences in film production, illustrating the Kingdom's commitment to serving humanity through cinema.
He recounted his involvement in producing a semi-documentary about the renowned Arab historian Ibn Battuta nearly two decades ago, a project that featured an international crew from Britain and the United States who traveled to Saudi Arabia. In the same year, he noted, a film about the Hajj was produced with support from various Saudi businessmen. Both films achieved success in international cinemas, reflecting the global interest in Saudi narratives.
Among his cinematic favorites, Prince Turki highlighted “Born a King,” which chronicles the early journey of King Faisal at the age of 13, when he represented King Abdulaziz at a peace conference following World War I. Most of the film was shot in Saudi Arabia, marking it as one of the first narrative films to feature Saudi actors and include local participation in its production. He expressed his admiration for the film, not only for its historical significance but also for its dedication to authentically portraying the Kingdom's heritage.
Prince Turki further commended the legacy of King Abdulaziz, stating that his life and achievements deserve to be the subject of numerous narrative films, alongside the stories of other influential figures who have shaped Saudi Arabia. He called for more exploration into these subjects, expressing hope for future productions that capture both Saudi culture and broader human experiences.
Highlighting the importance of original ideas in film production, Prince Turki asserted that successful filmmaking begins with a creator's vision, which then requires funding to transform into a screen-ready film. He noted that the Kingdom's leadership has made considerable investments in the film industry, providing resources and financial support to producers and creators, thereby opening new avenues for cinematic exploration.
Prince Turki encouraged filmmakers to view their work not solely as a means of profit but as a contribution to society, aiming to enrich cultural narratives. He pointed out that the current trajectory of the Saudi cinema industry positions the Kingdom as a potential global hub for creativity in film and the arts.
In his concluding remarks, Prince Turki praised the recent advancements in Saudi participation in theater, opera, and orchestral performances, including notable events held in London, underscoring the Kingdom's growing influence and commitment to the arts on the international stage. As Saudi cinema continues to evolve, it promises to become an integral part of the global cultural dialogue, showcasing the Kingdom's rich heritage and diverse narratives to audiences around the world.