Those complaining about spending more time scrolling on Netflix than actually watching anything will revel in the fact that the American streaming giant will be serving some fresh new content soon. Almost a year day-for-day since the pay-to-watch platform released its first slate of Saudi programs, which intended to introduce subscribers to 11 shorts directed by a promising crop of the Kingdom’s next up-and-coming filmmakers, Netflix is repeating the experience with a second set of projects available now.
Comprised of 13 titles, the collection spans across a rich range of genres— from feel-good to drama, fantasy, romance, and more— with the aim of showcasing and upholding the Gulf State’s vibrant industry as well as the creative talents that make it up. Handpicked from the Red Sea International Film Festival’s (RSIFF) roster of shorts, four features out of the entire catalog happen to be by-products of RSIFF’s investment in the industry, namely When Red Blooms by Tala Alharbi and The Child in His Closet by Khaled Zeidan who were winners of the festival’s 48-hour Filmmaking Challenge as well as VHS Tape Replaced by Maha Saati, and Yallah, Yallah Beenah by Mohammed Hammad who were supported by their Red Sea Fund.
“The second volume is not just a collection of short films; it is a celebration of untold stories, and a testament to the creative prowess of the emerging filmmakers. As these captivating tales find their home on Netflix, they transcend borders and allow viewers to experience the beauty and dynamism of Saudi culture. We believe great stories can come from anywhere and be loved by anyone,” said Nuha el Tayeb, Director, Content, Middle East, Africa, and Turkey, in a released statement.
With a true mix of soon-to-be gems, some of Netflix’s new arrivals include Last Chance to Fall in Love by award-winning writer Faisal Buhaishi, which chronicles the poignant tale of an old man as he reconnects with his first love five decades later; fictional dramas such as Old Phone Number by Ali Saeed, and Zabarjad by Hussain Almutliq, which both explore the themes of character growth. Mohammed Baqer’s Tea Leaf, which articulates the pain and regret that comes with failed and ended relationships, is also available to stream.
As the platform continues its exploration of one of the most dynamic and exciting Arab nations at the moment, Netflix’s dedicated attention to Saudi Arabia reflects its commitment to amplifying formerly muted voices, fostering creativity, and uplifting talent which further solidifies the American platform’s role as a real catalyst in the transformation of the Saudi entertainment industry.
