The Short Shorts Film Festival & Asia: A Gateway to Global Storytelling
DHAHRAN: Stepping into Dhahran for the Saudi Film Festival, renowned Japanese actor Tetsuya Bessho felt a sense of déjà vu despite it being his first visit to the Kingdom. The air was thick with untold stories waiting to be discovered, reminiscent of the early days of his career.
Eager to explore Saudi cinema, especially short films, Bessho found himself convinced that these compact narratives could serve as a powerful tool for cross-cultural learning. He believed that Saudi Arabia was a treasure trove of hidden stories waiting to be unearthed.
Now back in Tokyo preparing for the 26th edition of his own film festival, the Short Shorts Film Festival & Asia, Bessho reflected on his journey into the world of storytelling through acting.
In an interview with Arab News, Bessho shared how his passion for acting allowed him to communicate complex emotions and ideas through the characters he portrayed on screen, a skill he honed over the years.
For Bessho, short films were a unique window into intimate spaces, offering viewers a glimpse into the lives of characters in a brief yet impactful manner.
Having started his career in Hollywood and later embracing the art of short filmmaking, Bessho emphasized the importance of this format in conveying powerful messages and showcasing exceptional acting talent.
During his time at the Saudi Film Festival, Bessho scouted for short films by Saudi filmmakers, eager to bring these narratives to his own festival in Tokyo. He recognized the potential of emerging Saudi talent and hoped to feature their work in future editions of the festival.
Bessho praised the Saudi film industry for its unique storytelling style and expressed his belief in the country’s ability to excel in the world of short films, much like other regions with distinct cultural identities.
With the support of filmmakers like Ali Kareem Obaid, who has been instrumental in bridging cultural gaps through his work, Bessho sees a bright future for Saudi cinema on the global stage.
As the Short Shorts Film Festival continues to champion short films as a transformative medium, Bessho and his team look forward to showcasing Saudi stories in future editions of the festival, strengthening cultural ties between Japan and Saudi Arabia.
With a renewed passion for storytelling, Bessho and his colleagues will return to Japan to host their festival, bringing with them the rich tapestry of Saudi narratives they encountered at the Saudi Film Festival.
The event will be streamed online in Japanese and English, offering viewers a glimpse into the diverse world of short films from around the globe.