Art critic Wael Al-Otaibi confirmed that the remarkable development in horror makeup and special effects (SFX) has become one of the main pillars that push Saudi cinema towards global recognition, noting that this art form is no longer just entertainment, but has become a measure of the quality of production and its ability to compete in international forums.
Background of the Saudi film scene
This development comes amid a comprehensive boom in the entertainment and culture sector in Saudi Arabia, in line with the goals of Vision 2030. Following the reopening of cinemas in 2018, the industry has witnessed rapid growth, not only in the number of films produced but also in the diversity of film genres offered. Horror films have emerged as one of the most popular genres, especially among young people, opening the door for local creators to explore this field and develop their artistic and technical skills.
The psychology of horror and its appeal to young people
Al-Otaibi explained that horror films have become a therapeutic and entertainment tool for Saudi youth, especially those aged 15 to 25, allowing them to release psychological pressures through the experience of "safe fear." He pointed out that horror scenes stimulate the release of dopamine in the brain, generating a feeling of pleasure and excitement that contrasts with the tension associated with watching. This contrast between fear and pleasure is the secret to the great appeal of this cinematic genre, as young people tend to experience fear in a safe and controlled environment, such as a movie theater, without any real threat.
The importance and impact of horror films
Domestically, producing horror films to international standards contributes to raising the bar for the overall quality of Saudi cinema. For example, the film "Cello," released in September 2023 and adapted from a novel by Turki Al-Sheikh, marked a turning point in the history of Saudi horror, combining a local story with international production directed by Darren Lynn Boseman. This type of project not only solidifies the position of local cinema but also creates job opportunities for Saudi talent in specialized fields such as special effects and cinematic makeup.
Regionally and internationally, these films serve as ambassadors for Saudi culture, presenting stories inspired by local heritage in a way that resonates with global audiences. Success in a technically complex genre like horror sends a powerful message: Saudi Arabia has become a major player in the global film industry, capable of producing works that compete at the international box office.
The emergence of Saudi talents in special effects
Al-Otaibi highlighted the remarkable development of horror makeup and special effects teams within the Kingdom, praising the high level of professionalism demonstrated in cinematic productions and major entertainment events such as Riyadh Season. He noted the significant presence of professional women in this sector, which has contributed to raising the standard of visual artistry. These skills were clearly showcased in areas such as Riyadh City Boulevard and Winter Wonderland, where the "House of Horrors" and "Horror Restaurant" experiences became major attractions, thanks to specialized Saudi teams like "Dose of Horror," which excelled in designing realistic, imaginary characters and creatures using advanced techniques.
Al-Otaibi concluded his remarks by emphasizing that horror films, although they do not enjoy complete public consensus, represent a unique human experience that allows us to approach fear, experience it, and then recover from it. This explains the attachment of a wide segment of the public to them, whether as a psychological pleasure or as a means of a deeper understanding of our feelings.
