Saudi film “Norah” shines at Cannes Film Festival
Saudi film “Norah,” featuring actress Maria Bahrawi, made waves at the 77th Cannes Film Festival by receiving the Special Mention accolade at the Un Certain Regard awards. The film, directed by Tawfik Al-Zaidi, is a standout piece that captures the essence of artistry in 1990s Saudi Arabia against the backdrop of conservatism.
The cast and crew, led by Maria Bahrawi, Yaqoub Al-Farhan, and Abdullah Al-Satian, graced the stage to accept the prestigious award in front of a captivated audience. The movie, shot entirely in AlUla, tells the tale of Norah and failed artist Nader as they navigate their artistic ambitions in rural Saudi Arabia during a time when art was not widely embraced.
“Norah” had its official screening at the Cannes Film Festival, marking a significant milestone as the first Saudi film to be included in the event’s official calendar. The film was supported by the Red Sea Fund, a program under the Red Sea Film Foundation, and boasted an all-Saudi cast with 40 percent of the crew hailing from Saudi Arabia.
Un Certain Regard: Celebrating Innovation in Cinema
Un Certain Regard, chaired by Canadian filmmaker Xavier Dolan, aims to spotlight emerging trends in cinema and promote groundbreaking cinematic works. The jury, which included notable figures like Maimouna Doucoure, Asmae El Moudir, Vicky Krieps, and Todd McCarthy, recognized the outstanding achievements of various films showcased at the festival.
Among the winners, Chinese director Guan Hu’s “Black Dog” clinched the top prize in the Un Certain Regard section, showcasing the diverse range of talent and storytelling on display at Cannes.
Exploring Diverse Narratives Through Film
Guan Hu’s “Black Dog” delves into the story of a former convict who forms an unlikely bond with a stray dog while undertaking a unique mission in the remote outskirts of the Gobi Desert. The film’s poignant narrative and compelling performances resonated with the jury and audiences alike.
Additionally, the jury prize went to “The Story of Souleymane,” directed by Boris Lojkine, offering a glimpse into the life of a Guinean food delivery man navigating the complexities of an asylum application interview in Lyon. The film, a powerful portrayal of resilience and storytelling, marks Lojkine’s return to Cannes after a decade, solidifying his place as a master storyteller in the world of cinema.