Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Culture will present Discover Saudi Cinema, a special showcase of nine short films by emerging Saudi filmmakers, in Venice.
The event is being held in collaboration with the Film Commission and as part of its cultural events program currently held at the Abbazia building in Venice. It will run from August 28 to September 6.
Spanning dark comedies, coming-of-age dramas, poetic documentaries, and absurdist tales, the works explore a broad spectrum of themes: individual identity, grief, self-perception, community dynamics, enduring traditions, and artistic expression.
Many of the movies have been awarded or featured at key events, including the Saudi Film Festival, the Red Sea International Film Festival, and the Cairo International Film Festival. Others mark promising debuts by emerging filmmakers whose stories, though locally rooted, resonate beyond borders.
The Saudi Ministry of Culture will also host the panel "The Saudi Film Industry: Crafting Cinematic Success" at the Abbazia building. Directors, industry professionals, and cultural operators will discuss the development of a national cinematic identity, highlighting the challenges and opportunities.
The discussion will also underline how cinema is emerging as a prominent voice of new Saudi social and artistic dynamics, showcasing intercultural dialogue, and strengthening the country's international presence through the visual arts.
The showcase is part of the “The Saudi Ministry of Culture in Abbazia” program, held at the Abbazia building in Venice from May 10 to November 23. It coincides with the Kingdom’s participation in the 19th Venice Architecture Biennale 2025 and is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the presence of Saudi culture on the international stage.
It also aims to introduce the global community to the richness of Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage and the diverse beauty and creativity of its art scene, reflecting the ministry’s commitment to fostering international cultural exchange.
