Saudi Film “Norah” Makes History in Cannes Film Festival Selection
LONDON: In a groundbreaking moment, a Saudi film has been included in the official selection of the Cannes Film Festival for the very first time, as announced on Thursday.
The Kingdom’s debut selection, titled “Norah,” was filmed entirely in AlUla, directed by Tawfik Alzaidi, and set in 1990s Saudi Arabia during a time when conservatism prevailed, and the pursuit of art, including painting, was prohibited.
The narrative follows Nader, a failed artist turned schoolteacher, portrayed by Yaqoub Alfarhan, who helps a young girl named Norah, played by Maria Bahrawi, to discover her artistic abilities in a repressive rural environment.
The film premiered in Saudi Arabia in December at the Red Sea Film Festival in Jeddah and will be featured in the esteemed “Un Certain Regard” section of the French film festival, which celebrates new talent and unconventional storytelling alongside the renowned “Palme D’Or” competition.
“Norah” will be competing with 19 other international films at the event.
In an interview with Arab News before the premiere, Alzaidi expressed his hope that the film would inspire future generations to pursue their dreams relentlessly.
Bahrawi also shared her thoughts, stating that her portrayal of Norah in the film motivated her to stay true to herself and overcome any obstacles in her path.
Saudi Arabia ended its 35-year ban on cinemas in 2017, leading to a flourishing film industry that has established a strong connection with the Cannes festival since its initial delegation in 2018.
The 2024 Cannes Film Festival is scheduled to take place from May 14 to May 25.