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AlUla Creates, a groundbreaking platform by Film AlUla in collaboration with Vertigo Films and renowned filmmaker Haifaa Al-Mansour, is set to revolutionize the film industry in Saudi Arabia. This initiative aims to support and empower Saudi women directors by providing them with mentorship, training, and a chance to showcase their talents on the international stage. With the unwavering support of industry experts and a vision to nurture creativity, AlUla Creates is fostering an ecosystem around film, arts, and fashion, driving the socio-economic development of the AlUla region.Nurturing Saudi Women Filmmakers:The AlUla Creates short film competition is designed to establish a nurturing ecosystem for film, arts, and fashion, with a special focus on promoting Saudi Arabia’s future generations of filmmakers. By partnering with Vertigo Films and Haifaa Al-Mansour, Film AlUla aims to provide a solid platform for aspiring Saudi women directors to grow and thrive in the international film marketplace.A Trailblazing Partnership:Vertigo Films, renowned for its contributions to the film industry, joins forces with Film AlUla to support the filmmaking phase of the AlUla Creates program. The collaboration brings invaluable experience and expertise, ensuring that the next generation of Saudi women filmmakers receives the necessary tools and guidance to succeed.Mentorship and Professional Growth:The competition opens doors for Saudi women directors of all experience levels to showcase their unique perspectives and craft. Three winning directors will receive three months of mentorship and training from Haifaa Al-Mansour and Katie Holmes, two trailblazing women in the film industry. Additionally, Vertigo Films provides production support, and a $20,000 production grant enables the filmmakers to shoot their films at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of AlUla.Global Recognition and Opportunities:Through the AlUla Creates Program, Saudi female filmmakers have an unprecedented opportunity to gain international recognition. The winning directors will be invited to London to learn about the global marketplace and connect with key players in the industry, including sales, distribution, post-production, and VFX companies. Moreover, they will receive support for submitting their films to local and international film festivals, further enhancing their visibility and exposure.Haifaa Al-Mansour’s Inspiring Journey:Haifaa Al-Mansour, an accomplished Saudi filmmaker, expresses her honor in helping young female talents break into the international stage. Her personal journey serves as a powerful example of how the Saudi film industry has evolved to support and nurture a new generation of filmmakers. She emphasizes the importance of sharing authentic stories from Saudi Arabia and believes that the world is eager to hear from Saudi women directors.A Comprehensive Ecosystem:The AlUla Creates initiative is the first of its kind in Saudi Arabia, encompassing film, arts, and fashion. Launched earlier this year, the platform has already secured partnerships with the British Fashion Council and industry icons such as Alec Maxwell, Helena Christensen, and Eva Herzigova. This comprehensive approach furthers the film sector in Saudi Arabia and contributes to the socio-economic development of the AlUla region.Conclusion:AlUla Creates is a transformative platform that propels Saudi women directors to the forefront of the international film industry. Through mentorship, training, and financial support, AlUla Creates empowers aspiring filmmakers to share their unique perspectives and stories with global audiences. With Haifaa Al-Mansour and Vertigo Films as mentors, the initiative nurtures creativity, fosters talent, and creates a vibrant ecosystem around film, arts, and fashion in Saudi Arabia. This program not only drives the growth of the film industry but also plays a vital role in supporting the socio-economic development of the AlUla region.
