As a seasoned gamer with years of virtual travels under my belt, venturing into the real-world realm of Al-Balad in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia feels like stepping into a level I never knew existed. The historic district, teeming with traditional architecture and steeped in centuries of trade and cultural exchange, is a breathtakingly immersive experience that rivals even the most intricately designed video game environments.
The old town area of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia is known as Al-Balad, which means “The Town” in English. This historical heart of the country’s second-largest city houses traditional homes featuring wooden windows and balconies, along with being the new location for the Red Sea International Film Festival (RSIFF) headquarters within its Culture Square.
The venue is set up as a central point for those attending screenings during the 4th edition of the RSIFF. Moreover, participants in its marketplace (Souk) will be revisiting Al-Balad, the same location where the first RSIFF took place.
In its fourth installment, the Red Sea International Film Festival is coming back to its main location in the renowned Al-Balad district of Jeddah. The festival’s website announces this year’s theme as ‘The New Home of Film,’ which honors and embraces the significance of this legendary site, inviting filmmakers, industry experts, and movie lovers worldwide to acknowledge the transformative influence of storytelling.
For its initial run, the RSIFF took place in Al-Balad; however, over the last two years, the festival has been held at another part of the city instead.
Shivani Pandya Malhotra, the fest’s managing director, shares her enthusiasm about establishing our long-term base in Old Town Al-Balad for the upcoming event. She describes the location as stunning, boasting four cinemas and a theater auditorium seating 800 people. During the festival and throughout the year, we will conduct various workshops, discussions, and other programs at this venue. With the fest being our main initiative, we are debuting this space with it.
The new headquarters symbolizes Jeddah’s and Saudi Arabia’s historical role as a gathering place for people from diverse global backgrounds, which aligns perfectly with the mission of the fest and Red Sea Foundation – that is, serving as a unifying platform. As Malhotra articulates, “It truly embodies what Jeddah and Saudi Arabia have always been – a melting pot of various cultures.” This is further emphasized by not only the festival but also the four core aspects of the Foundation, such as the market and fund. We aim to be a bridge connecting Asia, Africa, and the Arab world while maintaining our international character. This is the kind of cinema we wish to promote.
Al-Balad boasts a rich past as a hub for global trade among diverse people, a fact that aligns with its mission. As you delve into history, you’ll find tales in every nook and cranny, making it a melting pot of cultures. This mirrors the very heart of what we represent, as well as the Foundation and festival.
Kaleem Aftab, head of international programming at RSIFF, underscores the significance of providing a communal space for festival-goers. He notes, “Throughout my travels to various film festivals, I’ve always been drawn to those that pulse with energy, have a core essence, and offer more than just a pull; they push out stories.” He continues, expressing this thought to THR, “Establishing a central hub, where everyone feels they can mingle, is crucial because I believe one of the key aspects of film festivals is their democratic nature. They provide an equal opportunity for a first-time filmmaker or film enthusiast to engage with seasoned filmmakers, costume designers, or actors and have unparalleled access.
As a gaming enthusiast, I’d say this: “For me, Jeddah stands out as an essential hub for aspiring filmmakers, artists, and movie buffs alike. It’s where the Saudi film industry is cultivating new talent, making it a crucial place in our community.
Significantly, the Culture Square and the RSIFF headquarters blend traditional aesthetics with state-of-the-art amenities. As Antoine Khalife, director of Arab Programs & Film Classics at RSIFF, tells THR, “The building is modern in terms of its technical capabilities, ensuring high-quality screenings. Yet, it also respects the surrounding architecture.” In essence, the building harmoniously combines tradition and modern technology.
As a fan, I’m thrilled about the news that the vibrant Red Sea Souk will be integrated into the upcoming cultural heart of Old Town Jeddah! In my own words, it feels like we, the enthusiasts, are going to witness an exquisite industry space right in the heart of history. As Holly Daniel, the director of Red Sea Souk, shared with THR, “We’re not just setting up a venue, but creating a bespoke industry space within the old town’s enchanting charm.” The vision is grand, aiming to establish a powerful presence in Jeddah’s Old Town not only during festivals but also through the market and beyond.
As a film enthusiast stationed right at the core of Jeddah, I’m thrilled to be a part of this transformation. We’re not just hosting an event; we’re introducing movies to our city in a way that makes the film festival an integral part of Jeddah’s vibrant landscape.
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2024-12-04 13:24