Saudi Arabia has, in recent years, emerged as one of the world’s growing hubs for cinema, hosting a range of film-related events throughout the year.
The Red Sea International Film Festival remains the country’s most prominent cinematic event, and its fifth edition is set to open in Jeddah on December 4. Films from Saudi Arabia and numerous other countries will take part in the 10-day festival.
Each year, stars from Hollywood, Bollywood and beyond attend the event, and this year is no different. Oscar-winning American director Sean Baker has been named jury president for the 2025 edition.
His latest film, ‘Anora’, won five Oscars this year, including Best Film, Best Director, Best Actress, Best Original Screenplay and Best Editing.
Baker’s previous credits include Scarlett, Tangerine, The Florida Project and Red Rocket. Festival organisers have announced that 16 films will compete in this year’s Feature Competition section, from which one will be awarded the Golden Yusr.
Sean Baker and his jury will select the winning film, following in the footsteps of last year’s jury president, Hollywood director Spike Lee.
“It is a great honour to serve as jury president of the Red Sea Festival after Spike Lee,” Baker said. “I have long admired the way this festival has become a home for bold and diverse cinema. Many significant films from the Arab world, Africa and Asia are part of this year’s Feature Competition, and I am delighted to be involved with one of the most important platforms for independent filmmaking.”
