The Secretary-General of the Arab Artists Union, Dr. Omar Al-Jasser, affirmed that the artistic scene in the Kingdom is witnessing radical transformations and an unprecedented qualitative leap, describing the current state of Saudi cinema as a period of "true prosperity." This came in exclusive statements to Al-Youm newspaper on the sidelines of his attendance at the Student Film Festival at King Abdulaziz University.
A cinematic movement that aligns with Vision 2030
Al-Jasser explained that this burgeoning artistic movement did not emerge from a vacuum, but rather is the product of a fertile environment fostered by the government's unlimited support for the culture and arts sector, in line with the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which has reshaped the cultural landscape since the decision to reinstate cinemas and the establishment of specialized bodies such as the Film Commission. He pointed out that this support has enabled Saudi filmmakers to reach the podiums of Arab and international festivals, transcending local participation to compete on the global stage, thus reflecting the Kingdom's growing soft power.
Generations connect: Experience meets the spirit of youth
Speaking about the films presented at the King Abdulaziz University Film Festival, Al-Jasser emphasized the importance of bridging the gap between the pioneering generation and the younger generation. Reflecting his deep appreciation for the energy of youth, he said, "Young people are offering visions and ideas we never considered before. In fact, we, as the older generation, are learning from them." He added that the new generation possesses innovative technical tools and dramatic approaches that open up previously unexplored horizons, making it imperative for the older generation to understand their cinematic language and engage with their visions in order to support them effectively and meaningfully.
Universities as incubators for creative talent
Al-Jasser praised the remarkable improvement in the festival's organization and the quality of its productions year after year, emphasizing that universities and specialized academies are playing a pivotal role in supplying the Saudi film industry with qualified talent. He noted that the student projects he witnessed, whether in scriptwriting or directing techniques, reflect a strong passion and the ability to create mature content that can compete effectively in the film market.
Dr. Omar Al-Jasser concluded his speech with a crucial piece of advice for male and female students, urging them to get involved in student clubs as the "real laboratory" for discovering and refining artistic, cultural, and scientific talents, stressing that the future is promising and that the opportunity is now golden for creative people to leave a clear mark on the history of Arab art.
