following the closing ceremony of the Red Sea International Film Festival, stars from across the globe shared career updates and lauded the event’s atmosphere in Saudi Arabia.The festival, which concluded last night, drew praise for its association and diverse film lineup, signaling a growing prominence in the international film community. Several attendees spoke with Hi Studio about their experiences, offering insights into their upcoming projects and the burgeoning Saudi film industry.
Stars from around the globe shared updates on their careers and praised the atmosphere in Saudi Arabia following the closing ceremony of the Red Sea International Film Festival last night.
Alia Bhatt Discusses Upcoming Projects, Offers Advice to Young Women
Indian superstar Alia Bhatt expressed her admiration for the atmosphere in Saudi Arabia during an interview at “Hi Studio.” “I think time flew by, and I wish I had more of it because every time I come here, I feel a lot of warmth from the people,” she said. “The food here is amazing, the weather seems perfect, and I really love the place. I’d actually like to explore the Kingdom more.”
Bhatt also noted a similarity in how Indian and Saudi audiences connect with films. “I found a kind of mutual love and respect for culture here, along with the social conversations that Indian cinema presents on screen, and similarly, Arabic cinema,” she explained. “I feel there’s a mix in the audience of a love for entertainment and a desire to take something with them. People remember the dialogues and the emotions. I’ve noticed this happens a lot with audiences in India, and even here—it’s a very special mix, to enjoy but also to be moved and feel and remember. That means the experience has a lasting impact.”
The global star also offered advice to young women who feel their dreams are too big. “You don’t have to shrink it or change it to fit someone else’s standards,” Bhatt said. “Your dream is your dream for a reason, and you just need to commit to it and work for it every day.”
Regarding her upcoming films, the Bollywood actress revealed she has two projects slated for release next year. The first is a new genre for her—an action film led by a female cast—and the second is titled “Love and War,” which will reunite her with Sanjay Leela Bhansali. “I’m very excited because of the team and the collaboration between us. It’s going to be a film unlike anything I’ve done before.”
Hena Shiha Reveals Her Most Challenging Recent Role
Egyptian actress Hena Shiha also appeared at “Hi Studio,” sharing her thoughts on this year’s Red Sea International Film Festival. “This is the second year I’ve attended the festival, and I see a big change. This year feels particularly organized and different, with a very strong lineup of films. The sessions are great, and every year the festival takes a huge step forward.”
Shiha discussed her approach to choosing roles, emphasizing that her love for the script is the most important factor, regardless of genre or character type. She highlighted the film “32 B” as a recent project particularly close to her heart, a short film set to screen at the Carthage Film Festival soon.
Speaking about the short film, Shiha said she delivered a single scene, noting that the character she portrayed was one of the most difficult she’s ever taken on. “The film itself was harder for me than making a full-length film,” she added. “It’s one scene where you have to convey all the emotions, and people have to know who you are and what you’re doing. That’s harder than a full film, and it was something I really enjoyed.”
The Egyptian star also sent a message to Saudi filmmakers, expressing her happiness with Saudi production. “I’m happy with what I’ve seen over the past two years. Saudi stars are very strong and have a different and important perspective to offer. I hope there will be Saudi-Egyptian collaborations, as is already happening, and that this will be reflected in cinema.”
Stars Share Thoughts at the Red Sea International Film Festival Closing
On the red carpet at the Red Sea International Film Festival closing ceremony, several stars shared their opinions on this year’s edition and the audience reactions to various films. Naomi Harris revealed her perspective on the festival this year, stating, “In many parts of the world, including my home country, the United Kingdom, interest in cinema has waned and cinema attendance has declined significantly, but here, there’s a great enthusiasm and passion for cinema, so it was truly wonderful to be a part of that.”
Harris described the atmosphere at the Red Sea International Film Festival, saying, “I think there’s a real sense of anticipation and excitement.” She also praised Saudi designers whose creations she wore to several festival events, saying, “Oh my god, they are amazing… I love all the sparkle and how they’re really going all out with style.”
Sarah Taiba revealed her reaction to the enthusiasm and success of her film “A Matter of Life and Death” during its screening at the festival, saying, “Thank God, I’m more shocked than pleased and trying to process the reactions, which were unexpected.” She also noted that she generally prefers open endings to works of art, but that Arab audiences, particularly Saudi audiences, often seek clear answers at the end of films. She also expressed her wish for the new year to be filled with contentment, peace, and tranquility.
Nour Arida also met with Hi magazine, revealing that if she were to enter the field of acting, she would wish to play a villainous character, noting that it would be a challenge and an adventure. She also mentioned that she has a documentary project scheduled for release next year, explaining that the idea of entering the field of acting has left her unsure if she even possesses the talent.
Model Alessandra Ambrosio praised Saudi Arabia and the city of Jeddah, saying, “Jeddah is a beautiful and wonderful city, and I have many friends here. I love exploring everything here.” Meanwhile, Lina Malaika said she was very happy to be part of the international festival events, noting that she is surprised every year by the festival’s continuous development.
Images from the stars’ and the festival’s accounts and Hi magazine on Instagram
