The fourth edition of the Red Sea International Film Festival (RSIFF) launched with an opening ceremony at its new home in Cultural Square, Al Balad.
Michael Douglas and his wife Catherine Zeta-Jones attending the festival
Cinema lovers and the international film community gathered to celebrate the world premiere of The Tale of Daye’s Family, a poignant Saudi-Egyptian co-production directed by acclaimed Egyptian filmmaker Karim Shenawy.
The film tells the moving story of Daye, an 11-year-old Nubian boy with albinism, who battles prejudice while pursuing his dream of becoming a singer like his idol, Mohamed Mounir. The screening was attended by the film’s cast, including Badr Mohamad, Haneen Mohamad, Islam Mubarak, and Aseel Omran, alongside writer and producer Haitham Dabbour.
Mohammed Al Turki
The evening also introduced the festival’s illustrious jury, led by American filmmaker Spike Lee. Joining him were celebrated names from across the globe, including Egyptian director Abu Bakr Shawky (Yomeddine), Turkish actress Tûba Büyüküstün (Black Money Love), British actress Minnie Driver (Good Will Hunting), and actor-producer Daniel Dae Kim (Lost).
Nadine Nassib Njeim stepped out in an exquisite Armani Privé gown by Giorgio Armani.
Nadine Nassib Njeim stepped out in an exquisite Armani Privé gown by Giorgio Armani.
The gala featured special awards to luminaries who have shaped the film industry. Bollywood legend Aamir Khan was honoured by Eva Longoria, while Academy Award-nominee Emily Blunt received her accolade from Michelle Yeoh. Egyptian actress Mona Zaki was celebrated by Minnie Driver, and Vin Diesel was presented with a Special Recognition Award by co-star Michelle Rodriguez, applauding his enduring contribution to cinema.
Jomana Al-Rashid, Chairwoman of the Red Sea Foundation, highlighted the festival’s commitment to promoting Arab, African, and Asian filmmaking. “Our opening night film showcases the depth of storytelling from the Arab region. As we embark on this journey, we are proud to provide a platform for diverse voices and narratives, with 122 films from 85 countries in 49 languages,” she said.
Cynthia Erivo
Mohammed Asseri, interim CEO of the Red Sea Film Foundation, added: “The Tale of Daye’s Family epitomises the essence of cross-cultural collaboration. This partnership between Saudi Arabia and Egypt highlights the strength of shared narratives, and we’re excited for the next ten days of global cinematic celebration.”
The festival attracted luminaries from Saudi Arabia and the GCC, including Abdulmohsen Alnemr, Elham Ali, and Khaled Sakr. Stars from the broader Arab world such as Mona Zaki, Yousra, and Nadine Njeim graced the red carpet.
Emily Blunt
International icons also attended in force, including Michelle Yeoh, Kareena Kapoor, Cynthia Erivo, Michael Douglas, and Catherine Zeta-Jones, ensuring a global spotlight on the festival.
The RSIFF has established itself as a hub for cultural exchange and cinematic artistry, with its new home in Al Balad serving as a beacon for film enthusiasts worldwide. With a programme rich in screenings, discussions, and collaborations, the next ten days promise to be a vibrant celebration of storytelling.
