The eagerly anticipated Red Sea International Film Festival returns for its fourth edition on December 5 – 14, 2024. More than 120 movies from over 80 different countries will screen in the Al Ballad district of Jeddah.
This year kicks off with a star studded opening ceremony in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, honouring, among others, two international superstars, Aamir Khan and Emily Blunt. And Red Sea Honouree, Viola Davis, will be honoured during the Awards Ceremony on December 12.
But what is perhaps most exciting of all, is that iconic, Oscar-winning filmmaker, Spike Lee (Do The Right Thing, Malcolm X, BlacKKKlansmen, and countless others) , will oversee the Festival’s Red Sea: Features Competition Jury this year. Safe to say, those presenting their films will be in good hands, or rather, eyes.
The festival will kick off with a screening of The Tale of Daye’s Family, directed by Egyptian filmmaker Karim Shenawy. The film tells the story of a Nubian albino singer as he confronts immense challenges on his 1,000-mile trek to audition for The Voice.
Johnny Depp‘s directorial feature, Modi, Three Days on the Wing of Madness, which was financially supported by the Red Sea Film Foundation, will also screen as part of a exclusive awards night event.
“Having been lucky enough to experience first-hand the incredible filmmaking, atmosphere and creativity at the Red Sea International Film Festival in 2022, it’s a privilege to be returning this year as President of the Jury,” Spike Lee said in a statement. “Alongside creating a melting pot for cultures to come together in celebration of our important art-form, it’s vital to continue to platform young and emerging filmmakers who are finding their voice in the industry, and it’s exciting to see first-time directors from across the Arab region, Asia and Africa as part of the Competition lineup this year. I’m looking forward to diving in to the programme and making what I’m sure will be some very tough decisions alongside the leading luminaries on the jury.”
“I’m incredibly excited to be coming to the Red Sea Film Festival and grateful to be one of this year’s honourees,” said Emily Blunt. “I love all that this festival is doing for innovative and emerging talent in the film industry. In particular, I’m enthused by how they are empowering women in cinema and amplifying their voices.”
“Cinema has been my lifelong passion, and to be amidst such an inspiring group of atistes from across the world is truly humbling,” said Aamir Khan. “I am deeply honoured to be recognised by the Red Sea international Film festival as it celebrates the impact and magic of cinema. I look forward to sharing my experiences, learning from others, and collectively celebrating the art of storytelling that unites us all.”
To watch the opening ceremony livestreamed on YouTube, click the link below which will be going live tomorrow December 5, 2024 at 8:00 p.m. local time (9 p.m. UAE).
For any additional information about the festival click here.