Lights, Camera, Saudi: Cinema Nights return to Riyadh

From thought-provoking documentaries to heart-touching dramas, this event offers silver-screen immersion.

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Saudi Arabia is becoming a hub for film enthusiasts. With a growing appreciation for arts and culture, Hollywood heading to the Kingdom to shoot and the popular Red Sea International Film Festival, the country is putting out all the stops to establish itself as a leader in the global entertainment landscape. To keep the momentum going, the Red Sea International Film Festival, in collaboration with the Diriyah Biennale Foundation, is bringing Cinema Nights back to Riyadh.

Set to kick off on 18 April and running until 23 May, Cinema Nights promises a curated selection of films. Taking place every Thursday at the Diriyah Riyadh Auditorium from 9pm to 11pm, this event promises to take you on a cinematic journey. 

18 April: Nocturnes

First up is Nocturnes, a documentary by Anirban Dutta and Anupama Srinivasan that touches upon the relationship between moths and climate change. Displayed through an immersive visual and auditory experience, this is definitely one to watch during Cinema Nights in Riyadh

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25 April: After the Long Rains

After the Long Rains follows the dreams of ten-year-old Aisha from Kenya, whose ambition to become an actress takes her on a journey to Europe. Directed by Damien Hauser, the film sheds light on societal challenges. This screening will be followed by a Q&A session with Damien as well.

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2 May: Norah

Delving into the heart of Saudi Arabia in the 90s, Norah transports audiences to a remote village where a young woman, played by Maria Bahrawi, finds freedom through art. As an official selection for the upcoming Cannes Film Festival and the winner of the AlUla Film Award, Norah promises to leave a lasting impression on viewers.

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16 May: Thiiird

Set in a rundown garage located on the outskirts of Beirut, Thiiird portrays the daily struggles of its characters. The movie follows Fouad, a mechanic, as he goes about his daily routine, but it’s the stories of the customers he serves as they try to face financial and social problems.

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23 May: Iraq’s Invisible Beauty

Closing Cinema Nights is Iraq’s Invisible Beauty, a tribute to the father of Iraqi photography, Latif al-Ani. This documentary takes viewers on a journey through Iraq’s rich heritage, coupled with the harsh realities of war. Through Latif’s lens, viewers will be transported to a bygone era, reminding us of the beauty that once thrived amidst chaos here

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Apart from the above lineup, Cinema Nights will also hold screenings of local and international short films. So make sure you grab tickets now — which start at SAR 35.

GO: Visit https://biennale.org.sa for more information.