DHAHRAN: “I felt an overwhelming sense of pride when I heard the news,” said Ibrahim Alhasawi, the Saudi veteran actor celebrated at this year’s Saudi Film Festival.
“Having witnessed the festival since its first edition in 2008, and being recognized alongside many fellow filmmakers I’ve worked with over the years, is truly an honor,” he told Arab News.
The 11th Saudi Film Festival, which concluded on April 23 at the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture in Dhahran, honored Alhasawi’s nearly four-decade career shaping Saudi cinema.
Organized by the Saudi Cinema Association in collaboration with Ithra and supported by the Saudi Film Commission, the festival was held under the theme “Stories Seen and Told,” with a focus on “Cinema of Identity” to highlight film’s role in expressing personal, cultural and national identity.
A cornerstone of Saudi cinema, Alhasawi began in community theater in the 1980s before gaining prominence in television and film, including as producer and director. His notable works include the iconic series “Tash Ma Tash” as well as recent performances in “Hajjan” and “Hobal.”
He spoke candidly about the industry’s growth, saying: “The change has been tremendous. Since the founding of the Saudi Film Commission, we’ve seen a clear rise in both the scale and quality of Saudi productions.”
His work is rooted in cultural storytelling. “Art without identity loses its soul,” he said. “We’re seeing a powerful emergence of Saudi cultural identity through film. With stories like ‘Hobal’ and ‘Hajjan,’ we are introducing audiences worldwide to the depth of our heritage.”
Alhasawi also highlighted the importance of representing the Kingdom’s regional diversity, noting how different areas of Saudi Arabia bring distinctive perspectives and traditions that enrich the national narrative.
The festival paid tribute to the actor with a commemorative book, “From Village Theatre to the Global Screen,” featuring photographs, reflections and testimonials about his journey.
He met aspiring filmmakers at festival book signings and discussions, cementing his role as a mentor.
Of his acting process, he said: “I approach each role by exploring the character’s physical presence, social background and psychological depth. These layers help bring the performance to life with sincerity and nuance.”
The festival showcased 68 films from Saudi Arabia and the Gulf, including eight narrative features and 21 shorts, with “Hobal,” directed by Abdulaziz Alshlahei, standing out for its themes of cultural identity and resilience.
Ithra’s venues hosted screenings, panels, workshops and red-carpet events, blending film with musical and artistic performances to underscore cinema’s place in Saudi cultural life.
By celebrating icons such as Alhasawi while amplifying new voices, the festival highlights Saudi cinema’s vibrant legacy and its growing global influence.
