Katia Jarjoura’s ‘Robbing Beirut’ Wins Top Prize at Red Sea Souk Amid High Stakes Stories from Global Filmmakers

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia – At the prestigious Red Sea International Film Festival, Lebanese Canadian director Katia Jarjoura’s “Robbing Beirut” clinched the top distinction in the Red Sea Souk project market, winning $75,000 for its compelling in-development narrative that mirrors Lebanon’s economic turmoil. The Red Sea Souk showcased a diverse array of 31 feature films and seven series projects, reflecting a rich tapestry of global cinematic potential. “Robbing Beirut” tells the gripping tale of a woman compelled to rob a bank after being denied access to her own $30,000 savings, which she desperately needs for her … Read more

Spike Lee Sets Sights on Unearthing Cinematic Gems as Jury President at Red Sea Film Festival

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia – Acclaimed filmmaker Spike Lee has brought his quest for fresh storytelling to Saudi Arabia, where he leads the jury at the Red Sea International Film Festival. Lee, known for his incisive and provocative films, is seeking standout narratives from a diverse selection of 16 features crafted by directors from the Arab world, Asia, and Africa. Upon his arrival in Jeddah, the Oscar-winning director expressed his enthusiasm for evaluating films without any preconceived notions about the filmmakers. He highlighted the rarity of encountering films in such an unbiased frame of mind, which … Read more

Spike Lee to Lead Jury at Red Sea International Film Festival, Promotes Emerging Filmmakers from Global South

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia – In an exciting development for both cinematic and cultural landscapes, acclaimed Oscar-winning filmmaker Spike Lee will be at the helm of the main jury at the Red Sea International Film Festival, slated for December 5-14. This year marks the fourth installment of what has become a notable event in the international film circuit, particularly highlighting works from the Arab region, Asia, and Africa. The Brooklyn native, celebrated for his influential films such as “Malcolm X,” “BlacKkKlansman,” and “Do The Right Thing,” brings a wealth of expertise and an eye for groundbreaking … Read more

Spike Lee to Lead Jury at Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea International Film Festival, Celebrating Global Cinema and Emerging Voices

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia – Celebrated filmmaker Spike Lee is set to lead the jury at the Red Sea International Film Festival’s main competition this December, marking a significant moment for the annual cinematic event now in its fourth year. The festival, which will run from Dec. 5-14 in Jeddah, will feature 16 diverse films vying for top honors in what promises to be a showcase of global storytelling and emerging talent. Among the highlighted entries are Reema Kagti’s “Superboys of Malegaon,” which enjoyed its world premiere at the Toronto Film Festival, and Kurdwin Ayub’s “Moon,” … Read more