New Saudi cinema films: Local horror and international action
Saudi cinemas are welcoming a new wave of diverse films catering to a wide range of tastes, with four new movies competing at the box office this weekend. These screenings are part of the burgeoning cultural and entertainment movement in Saudi Arabia since the reopening of cinemas in 2018, a move that marked a significant turning point in the local cultural landscape.
These releases reflect the entertainment sector's commitment to achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 , specifically the Quality of Life Program, which aims to diversify entertainment options for citizens and residents. Cinemas have become a major destination for families and young people, enhancing the social presence of cinema as a vital economic and cultural resource. This week's new lineup features a variety of genres, including crime thrillers, survival dramas, and family-friendly animation, with a prominent presence of Saudi films.
Trap House: A breathtaking police chase
For fans of action and thrillers, cinemas are showing Trap House , rated R15. This suspenseful crime thriller follows a DEA agent who finds himself in an unconventional situation. The plot thickens when the agent pursues a group of teenage thieves who recklessly make a daring robbery from one of the most dangerous gangs, putting everyone in deadly danger. This type of film reflects the growing demand in the Saudi market for big-budget action movies with complex storylines.
Turbulence: A dream trip turns into a nightmare
In the psychological thriller and survival genre, Turbulence with an R18 rating. The film offers an intense visual and emotional experience, beginning with a romantic hot air balloon ride for a couple, but the atmosphere quickly shifts as the dreamy journey transforms into a fierce battle for survival. The film focuses on relentless psychological pressure, a cinematic style that appeals to a broad audience seeking powerful emotional experiences in state-of-the-art cinemas.
The film “Houba”: Saudi horror makes its presence felt
In a move that strengthens the position of local productions, the Saudi film "Houba ," rated R18, is being screened. This work is a significant addition to the Saudi horror and mystery film library, which has witnessed a qualitative leap in recent years. The story revolves around the character of "Amani," who discovers a mysterious danger lurking within her home, exceeding all conventional fears.
This film holds particular significance within the context of the evolving Saudi film industry, where local films have begun to rival their international counterparts at the Saudi box office. Critics point out that the Saudi directors' inclination towards horror and mystery genres reflects a desire to explore social and psychological heritage through modern lens, thus contributing to the export of local culture to the world via the silver screen.
Zootropolis 2: The return of the beloved duo
Families and children will be treated to a special treat with the animated film Zootropolis 2 (Zootopia 2), rated PG. The film returns to build on the overwhelming success of the first installment, reuniting the rabbit policewoman Judy Hobbs and the fox Nick Wilde in a new adventure. Animated films are a cornerstone of Saudi Arabian cinema revenues, given the Kingdom's demographics, where families and children constitute a large percentage of moviegoers, making family-friendly and educational content highly valuable to the market.
