On October 26, 2024, the "Saudi Film Nights" in China, hosted by the Saudi Film Commission and organized by ORI Group, concluded successfully in Shanghai. The event began in Beijing on October 21, moved to Suzhou on October 23, and wrapped up in Shanghai on October 25-26. This marks the first time Saudi films have been screened in China.
The event attracted over 1,000 participants, including film industry experts, university representatives, cultural enterprise professionals, and movie enthusiasts from across China. Senior officials from the Saudi Film Commission attended the entire series, with Saudi Ambassador to China, H.E. Abdulrahman Al-Harbi, and Khalid, Vice Consul of the Saudi Consulate General in Guangzhou, joining the Beijing and Shanghai events, respectively. Both offered high praise for the initiative.
Saudi Films Make Their China Debut with Four Cultural Showcases
"Saudi Film Night" featured four films: Valley Road, Saleeg, IL SIGNORE , and Star Chaser. Each work highlighted unique themes, ranging from adventure and familial bonds to workplace dynamics and science fiction. Together, they showcased Saudi culture and life against the backdrop of rapid social development and innovation.
The films captivated Chinese audiences with their exotic storytelling and visual appeal, bridging the cultural gap between the two nations. Nearly all screenings were sold out, reflecting the strong interest in Saudi stories and perspectives. Through these works, Saudi filmmakers conveyed the diversity and creativity of their culture, offering Chinese audiences an immersive glimpse into Saudi Arabia’s cinematic landscape.
Looking Ahead: "China Film Week" Coming to Saudi Arabia
More than just a film screening, this event marked a milestone in Sino-Saudi cultural exchange. Building on this success, the Saudi Film Commission plans to deepen collaboration and host a "China Film Week" in Saudi Arabia in 2025. This initiative will bring a diverse selection of Chinese films to Saudi screens, offering local audiences a rich experience of Chinese storytelling, culture, and artistic expression.
The upcoming event aims to foster cultural resonance and understanding between the two nations, strengthening connections through cinematic narratives and artistic exploration.
Deepening Bridges of Cultural Exchange
The success of "Saudi Film Nights" highlights a pivotal moment in Sino-Saudi film and cultural collaboration. By sharing Saudi stories with Chinese audiences, the event showcased Saudi filmmakers’ passion for artistry and innovation. It also established a solid foundation for deeper interaction and cooperation between the film industries of both nations.
Chairman of ORI Group Feng QIAN remarked:
“Sino-Saudi cultural exchanges are evolving rapidly, with cinema playing a vital role. The ‘Saudi Film Night’ showcased the allure of Saudi culture and opened doors for further film collaborations. We look forward to seeing more outstanding films from both Saudi Arabia and China on each other’s screens.”
ORI Group remains committed to fostering openness, inclusive, and mutual learning. The company seeks to create more diverse and meaningful cultural exchange platforms, providing opportunities for filmmakers and cultural practitioners from both nations and beyond. Together, ORI aims to write a new chapter in international cultural exchange.
