‘Luther’ director talks challenges, lauds Saudi Arabia’s embrace of film industry  

Director Jamie Payne. (AFP)
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Updated 14 March 2023
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‘Luther’ director talks challenges, lauds Saudi Arabia’s embrace of film industry  

LONDON: “Luther: The Fallen Sun,” featuring Idris Elba, Andy Serkins and Cynthia Erivo, landed on Netflix on Friday as director Jamie Payne shared with Arab News the challenges of filming the new movie, as well as his take on Saudi Arabia’s growing film industry. 

After a successful theatrical release accompanied by premiers in London and New York, fans will be able to watch the TV series-turned-film on Netflix. 

Payne spoke to Arab News about the task of adapting the popular TV series to the big screen, saying that the biggest challenge was making sure to “honor” the series by “protecting that umbilical cord back to the DNA of what made it great. 

“That was the biggest responsibility I had,” he added. 

During the premiere of “Luther: The Falling Sun” at the BFI in London, Elba hinted at plans for a possible franchise of the film, something that can take up James Bond’s “real estate.” 

In “Luther: The Fallen Sun,” Elba reprises his role as the brilliant but troubled and impulsive Detective Chief Inspector John Luther, the character he played in the award-winning BBC series “Luther” between 2010 and 2019. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Idris Elba (@idriselba)

Continuing from the show, the movie follows the adventures of Luther as he escapes from prison to capture a narcissistic cyber psychopath and serial killer, played by Serkis. 

Meanwhile, Payne took the chance to comment on the rapid expansion of Saudi Arabia’s film industry and the importance of new platforms like the Red Sea International Film Festival for the region. 

“I think it is great there is a focus on encouraging the film industry into a space like Saudi Arabia,” he told Arab News. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Idris Elba (@idriselba)

“To take any industry, whether that’d be the Arab film industry or the French film industry, I think we need to have as broad a conversation as possible when it comes to storytelling approach. 

“I think having a new arena (such as the RSIFF) for stories only adds to something that I love passionately, and that’s telling stories. The fact that we are encouraged to go there, and…that Saudi Arabia is celebrating films the way that the Saudis are, I think it is really important,” Payne added.  

Asked about the idea of directing in the Kingdom, Payne said: “I’d love to film there. Who wouldn’t?” 


Yataghan boutique in Jeddah celebrates Saudi heritage

Updated 20 December 2025
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Yataghan boutique in Jeddah celebrates Saudi heritage

JEDDAH: Yataghan, the contemporary Saudi jewelry house founded in 2008 by designer and entrepreneur Sarah Abudawood, has announced an expansion with its Riyadh debut at Kingdom Centre, alongside the relocation of its headquarters and flagship store to a street-front location on Jeddah’s Thalia Street.

The brand, known for blending Arabian heritage with modern minimalism, unveiled two boutiques designed as immersive experiences rather than mere retail spaces.

Every detail of the new Jeddah location has been carefully curated; brass accents inspired by the Yataghan blade evoke precision and luxury, while striped, gray onyx symbolizes continuity and progress, according to the brand’s founder. Vast windows, softened by Yataghan’s signature hexagonal motif, a symbol of harmony, order, and strength, flood the boutiques with natural light, creating an inviting environment for visitors.

Inspired by the Yataghan sword, with its distinctive, single-edged blade, the brand’s collections fuse minimalist design with Arabic calligraphy and tribal motifs.

“The name Yataghan draws its meaning from the two swords on the Saudi flag — a symbol that has always fascinated me for what it represents: conviction, protection, truth, and above all, balance,” Abudawood told Arab News.

“The Yataghan sword, known for its graceful curve and exquisite craftsmanship, embodies purpose and precision. It is drawn to defend what matters and to guard what is sacred. It sets boundaries and restores equilibrium, reminding us that strength is not only about force, but about knowing when to advance and when to stand still.

“That balance is reflected in every piece we create. Because, like the sword, Yataghan is more than an ornament; it is a statement of purpose, and identity.”

Abudawood explained the cultural inspiration behind the brand, highlighting pieces connected to Saudi identity. “This branch carries designs that are deeply connected to Saudi identity and cultural memory. Some pieces are exclusive, inspired by symbols, rhythms, and forms rooted in our heritage, interpreted through a modern lens … Jeddah, in particular, has a unique spirit: fluid, expressive, open, and layered with history. That essence subtly informs the designs you’ll find here.” 

The founder also spoke of the brand’s philosophy of minimalism and meaningful design.

“It comes from my belief that simplicity creates space for meaning. I have always been drawn to architecture and the principle that form must follow function. I design with intention; nothing is accidental. Every line has a purpose, every curve holds a story. Minimalism, for me, is not about removing emotion; it is about distilling it. I want each piece to feel timeless, personal, and quietly powerful.”

The label has been flaunted by high-profile clients — including Jennifer Lopez, Lady Gaga and Lama Akeel — but Abudawood emphasized the brand’s focus on connection over visibility. “Whether someone is a public figure or not, what moves me is when they feel seen by the jewelry. Yataghan has always been about resonance, about creating pieces that speak to identity, strength, and personal stories,” she said.

Looking ahead, 2026 will mark new chapters for Yataghan, including local and international expansion, innovative collections, and a stronger focus on storytelling and community collaborations. “Growth has never been about reach alone; it’s about depth, integrity, and lasting impact,” Abudawood added.

“Ultimately, what drives me is purpose. I’m motivated by the desire to create work that matters, to offer women something that reflects who they are, not who they’re expected to be. Design, for me, is a form of dialogue, a way to translate emotion into form. As long as I’m creating with honesty, intention, and heart, I know I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.”