Jeddah to Host Red Sea International Film Festival Honoring Viola Davis and Mona Zaki
Academy Award-winning actress and producer Viola Davis and Egyptian star Mona Zaki will be honored at this year’s Red Sea International Film Festival in Jeddah, set to run from Dec. 5-14 under the theme “The New Home of Film.”
Exciting Lineup at Culture Square
Jeddah’s newly inaugurated Culture Square is the main venue for this year’s festivities. RSIFF will showcase a lineup of 120 films from 81 territories and host a program of talks, screenings, and awards honoring luminaries in the film industry.
Global Cinema Icons Honored
This year the festival will honor two women in global cinema: Egyptian actress Mona Zaki and Academy Award-winning US actress Viola Davis.
Empowering Filmmakers with Diverse Narratives
Davis, a producer and co-founder of JVL Media, dedicated to bringing diverse narratives to the screen, will also be recognized. JVL Media will take part in RSIFF’s Souk, an industry-focused market fostering cross-cultural storytelling and collaboration.
Unique Blend of Heritage and Modernity
This UNESCO Heritage site offers a blend of heritage and modernity, creating an immersive cinematic experience.
Supporting the Film Ecosystem
Shivani Pandya Malhotra, managing director of the RSIFF, highlighted the foundation’s comprehensive approach to supporting the film ecosystem, including Red Sea Labs and the Red Sea Fund.
Fostering International Connections
Shivani emphasized the importance of telling authentic local stories and creating a platform for filmmakers to connect with international buyers, distributors, and sales agents.
Exciting Film Premieres
RSIFF 2024 will open with “The Tale of Daye’s Family” and feature films directed by Johnny Depp and Michael Gracey.
Competitive Lineup and Gala Screenings
In addition to the highlights, the festival will present a competitive lineup, including films starring Angelina Jolie, Florence Pugh, Andrew Garfield, and Danny DeVito.
Embracing Change and Modernity
Kaleem Aftab, director of international programming at RSIFF, looks for emotionally resonant films that connect with audiences in Saudi Arabia and embody themes of change and modernity.