Abdullah Al Muheisen: Pioneering Saudi Filmmaker Builds Bridges with China

Saudi filmmaker Abdullah Al Muheisen is partnering with Chinese entities to modernize the film industry, focusing on youth engagement and cultural storytelling. A recent signing with Salon Films aims to establish a hub for talent in Saudi Arabia. Al Muheisen, celebrating 50 years in film, highlights the journey from the historic cinema ban to embracing modern technologies and collaborations.

In an effort to remain relevant in the contemporary digital landscape, Abdullah Al Muheisen, an esteemed Saudi filmmaker, is forging important partnerships in China. On March 18, a signing ceremony took place between Al Muheisen’s World Of Sounds And Visions Company and Hong Kong-based Salon Films, chaired by Fred Wang Cheung-yue. Al Muheisen envisions a hub in Saudi Arabia to nurture Asian talent and facilitate knowledge exchange, focusing on production tailored for a new generation.

Born in 1947, Al Muheisen, recognized as the first Saudi director, began his filmmaking career in the 1970s with his notable 1975 documentary Development of Riyadh City, regarded as the first Saudi film. During a recent tech conference in Hong Kong, he advocated for the inclusion of a smartphone-shot film category at festivals, highlighting the rising influence of artificial intelligence in cinema.

In his exclusive interview with China Daily, Al Muheisen remarked on the advantages of artificial intelligence in the industry, stating, “I think anything new has got something inside it. Obviously, AI saves researchers time, to an extent. But they cannot leave their own research method.” He emphasized the significance of the human touch in filmmaking and expressed his gratitude to Fred Wang for renewing his knowledge.

He believes the collaboration between Saudi Arabia and various Asian countries can showcase diverse heritage through film. Al Muheisen commented on the existing strengths within Asia’s rich storytelling potential and the need for audiences to connect with their heritage. He stated, “Cooperation between the Saudis and others in Asia can help deliver movies to the world… to produce.”

Reflecting on his cinematic journey, Al Muheisen acknowledged the challenges he faced at the onset of his career, expressing a desire to fulfill his dreams with today’s advanced tools. Celebrating 50 years in the industry, he believes that the lifting of Saudi Arabia’s cinema ban in 2018 was a prudent decision, crediting King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Al Saud for their visionary reforms under Vision 2030.

Abdullah Al Muheisen’s collaboration with Salon Films represents a significant advancement for Saudi cinema, aiming to integrate Asian talent and heritage into modern filmmaking. His ability to adapt and evolve with new technologies and partnerships illustrates his commitment to youth and innovation in the industry. Furthermore, his reflections on the importance of cultural storytelling and government support underscore the potential for growth in the Saudi film sector.

Original Source: www.chinadailyasia.com