Riyadh is hosting the second edition of the International Film Criticism Conference, an event gathering prominent international filmmakers, critics, and film enthusiasts to discuss the critical role of sound in cinema. Running from November 6 to 10, the conference is spearheaded by the Saudi Film Commission and forms part of the Kingdom’s ongoing commitment to expanding its cinematic landscape, in line with Saudi Vision 2030.
This year’s conference, themed “Sound in Cinema,” examines how audio elements like film scores, sound effects, and ambient sounds impact the viewer’s experience and the industry as a whole. The event features a series of workshops, film screenings, and interactive exhibits designed to deepen understanding of sound’s role in storytelling.
The opening ceremony began with a video presentation summarising the conference’s aims and previous milestones. Saudi Film Commission CEO Abdullah bin Nasser Al-Qahtani delivered the keynote, underscoring the significance of criticism as a guiding force in cinema. Al-Qahtani stated, “The Saudi Film Commission is dedicated to fostering a thriving film industry, aligned with Vision 2030. Criticism, as an intellectual and artistic tool, is essential in illuminating cinema’s path and expanding its horizons.”
Al-Qahtani further emphasised the commission’s intent to create a platform that fosters cross-cultural dialogue and enriches Arabic cinematic awareness, bringing it to the international stage while preserving the nation’s cultural identity.
Prominent Saudi director Abdullah Al-Mohaisen also addressed attendees, reflecting on the transformative power of criticism. “Film criticism is a living, honest, and purposeful force that drives creativity for directors. At its core, cinema is a message, conveying meaning beyond entertainment,” he remarked.
The ceremony featured a screening of Al-Mohaisen’s documentary, Assassination of a City, a critically acclaimed Saudi film that has earned multiple international awards. The film’s screening was followed by an engaging discussion between Al-Mohaisen and film critics Ahmad Shawqi and Ahmad Alayyad, exploring the film’s themes and cinematic techniques.
The Saudi Film Commission’s event marks a significant addition to the Kingdom’s expanding film industry. In addition to the Riyadh conference, the commission has hosted other film criticism events across Saudi Arabia this year, including gatherings in Hail on September 27 and Al-Ahsa on October 25. Through these initiatives, the commission aims to cultivate a culture of critical discourse, empowering local filmmakers and elevating the Kingdom’s presence on the global cinematic stage.
The International Film Criticism Conference 2024 not only offers insights into the art of sound in cinema but also symbolises Saudi Arabia’s efforts to build a robust, culturally resonant film industry that can thrive internationally.
