International stars at the Red Sea Film Festival 2025 sessions
The Red Sea International Film Festival has announced the addition of several prominent names to its "In Conversation" speaker lineup for its fifth edition in 2025, currently taking place in Jeddah's historic district (Al-Balad). This move further solidifies the festival's position as a global platform that brings together leading figures in cinema from both East and West, offering audiences and filmmakers a rare opportunity for direct interaction with screen legends.
Star roster: A blend of experience and rising talent
The new list includes several high-profile figures, most notably the Oscar-winning actor and composer Sir Anthony Hopkins , a veritable school of art in himself. Also featured are the renowned British director and musician Idris Elba , the acclaimed actor Nicholas Hoult , and the celebrated Venezuelan actor Edgar Ramirez .
The additions weren't limited to these figures; they also included rising Indian film star Kartik Aaryan , reflecting the festival's cultural diversity. Academy Award winner Riz Ahmed , who also serves on the jury for the Red Sea Feature Film Competition this year, will participate in the sessions, along with acclaimed Academy Award-winning director Darren Aronofsky . These stars will share their personal experiences, career paths, and visions for the future of filmmaking in open and inspiring dialogues.
Red Sea Festival: A Global Cultural Platform
Since its inception, the Red Sea International Film Festival has successfully transformed Jeddah into a major hub for filmmakers worldwide. Beyond simply screening films, the festival aims to create an interactive environment through its diverse programs, such as the Red Sea Market and panel discussions, fostering the exchange of experiences and knowledge. Attracting such prominent names reflects the growing confidence in the festival as a cinematic event on par with prestigious international festivals like Cannes and Venice.
Cultural and economic impact
These events are particularly significant given the major cultural transformation underway in Saudi Arabia as part of Vision 2030. The presence of international stars in Jeddah not only promotes tourism to the UNESCO-listed historic district but also plays a pivotal role in inspiring the next generation of Saudi and Arab filmmakers. Direct interaction with Oscar-winning directors and actors opens new avenues for international collaboration and strengthens the presence of Arab cinema on the global stage, confirming the Kingdom's status as a key player on the world cinematic map.
