Abdulrahman Sandokji, a Riyadh-based leading documentary filmmaker joins hosts Hanaa and Lucien in Episode 13 of The TWENTY30 for an exclusive discussion about the status of film and cinema in Saudi Arabia and discusses his journey from having his first camera at age 15 to becoming a notable figure in the industry, directing and producing numerous projects featured on major broadcast channels and festivals, including the 10th Saudi Film Festival.
Sandokji recently finished a documentary called “Underground” about Saudi Arabia’s growing music scene and reacts to the experience of filming the documentary, which follows artists around the Kingdom. He also discuses the impact YouTube had on his career, the significant role of the Ministry of Culture in supporting Saudi filmmakers, and his successful investigative documentaries like 'Phosphine.' He also shares his insights on the growing interest and importance of documentaries in Saudi Arabia, along with advice for aspiring filmmakers. His upcoming projects focus on exploratory TV series about ancient Saudi civilizations.
Before the conversation with Abdulrahman, the hosts discuss Hanaa’s deepdive, which is a discussion of fashion in Saudi Arabia in the context of what visitors should wear, what to expect and how to be respectful after a discussion of this topic a few weeks ago on the Kingdom’s Red Sea Fashion Week prompted a desire to spend more time on this subject. Hanaa highlights how the laws have changed over time and places this story of transformation within modesty laws and the fading role of the Haia.
The episode finishes up, as always, with some interesting recent news topics, including:
-The Red Sea Film Foundation's storytelling training for aspiring filmmakers and a showcase of international documentaries
-Preparations for Hajj, with 2.1 million pilgrims arriving in Saudi Arabia and extensive logistical planning to ensure their safety.
-Saudia’s negotiations with Boeing for wide-body jets,
-A successful separation surgery of conjoined twins by a Saudi medical team
-The rebranding and new identity of Al Qadisiyah Football Club.
For Episode 13’s “Arabic Word of the Show” summary, the hosts also explore the cultural practice of entering a room where people are eating without interrupting their meal.
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