Riyadh, April 15, 2024, The 2024 Cannes Film Festival has revealed its official program, featuring the Saudi film "Norah" in its esteemed "Un Certain Regard" section. This marks the first time a Saudi film has been selected for this prestigious festival, renowned as a premier platform for international cinema.
"Norah," written and directed by Tawfiq Al-Zaidi, benefited from the Film Commission's "Daw Film Support" program, which champions Saudi filmmakers and strengthens local productions in alignment with Vision 2030's focus on nurturing domestic talent and creative industries. Additionally, the film received support from the Quality of Life Program, AlUla Film, the Red Sea Film Festival, and Generation 2030.
Set in a remote Saudi village during the 1990s, "Norah" delves into a captivating narrative of self-discovery and artistic expression. The story revolves around Norah, who leads a secluded life away from village activities. The film explores the bond formed between Norah and another individual, sparking a creative awakening within them.
Starring Maria Bahrawi and Yaqoub Al-Farhan, with Abdullah Al-Sadhan in a supporting role, "Norah" has achieved a significant milestone for Saudi cinema by securing a spot at Cannes. Its selection reflects the film's artistic merit, as Cannes showcases carefully curated works to specialized juries.
Participation in Cannes offers invaluable opportunities for global connections and knowledge exchange among directors and filmmakers. The Film Commission's "Daw" program plays a pivotal role in elevating Saudi Arabia's creative landscape by empowering filmmakers to produce high-quality short and feature films that compete internationally. Through financial support and other resources, the program fosters the creation of original local content and strengthens the presence of Saudi cinema on the global stage.
