In the enchanting cinematic atmosphere of Jeddah, as part of the fifth edition of the Red Sea International Film Festival , Saudi star Elham Ali the audience with a candid and insightful discussion about the current state and future of art in the Kingdom. Elham's presence was not merely a symbolic gesture, but rather a testament to the qualitative leap the Saudi art industry is undergoing, now competing strongly on both the regional and international stages.
Red Sea Festival: A global platform with a Saudi vision
Elham Ali's remarks come at a time when the Red Sea International Film Festival is establishing itself as one of the most important cultural events in the Middle East. Since its inception, the festival has played a pivotal role in achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 related to quality of life and the support of culture and the arts. The festival has evolved from simply a showcase to a hub for talent, transforming into a major production market that brings together filmmakers from Hollywood, Bollywood, and the Arab world, giving Saudi artists the opportunity to gain direct exposure to international expertise.
Philosophy of success: There is no room for coincidence
Speaking about her career, Elham Ali emphasized that longevity in art is not dependent on luck. She explained, "Nothing happens by chance. Success might come by chance in terms of audience acceptance at times, but selection and preparation are never accidental." These statements reflect the artistic maturity that Saudi actors have reached, where the focus is now on a deep study of characters and the subtle details that make all the difference, moving away from random choices.
The challenges of "Al-A'sha Street" and the second season
The Saudi star discussed one of her most prominent works, the series "Al-A'sha Street," revealing her initial concerns about the idea of multiple seasons, a dilemma faced by many internationally successful productions. Ilham stated, "I was afraid of a second season… what would we offer?" However, thanks to writing workshops and meticulous preparation, the team was able to craft an entirely new storyline that delves into the depths of the main character rather than simply focusing on surrounding storylines, thus ensuring viewers a fresh experience that doesn't solely rely on the success of the first season.
Between "Wadha" and "Sondos": A reflection of the true personality
In comparing her roles, Elham surprised her audience with a confession about the character "Sondos," confirming that it was the closest to her heart and 99% of her true personality, to the point that she didn't exert any effort in acting but simply "wore the look." In contrast, she explained that the character " Wadha " only shares the trait of "strength" with her, highlighting her ability to adapt and embody characters far removed from her own nature.
From showcasing abroad to celebrating at home
Ilham Ali concluded her remarks with a touch of national pride, highlighting the radical transformation of the Saudi film industry. After years of Saudi artists having to showcase their work at foreign festivals to gain recognition, they are now "homegrown," presenting their creations on their own soil, to their own audiences, with unprecedented governmental and public support. This development reflects the passion and ambition of the new generation of artists, heralding a promising future for Saudi cinema, which has already begun to carve out its place on the global map.
