How AI may push the boundaries of creativity in the Saudi film industry

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Updated 06 June 2024
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How AI may push the boundaries of creativity in the Saudi film industry

  • From generating story ideas to streamlining post-production, artificial intelligence could revolutionize Saudi filmmaking
  • Digital arts expert thinks Saudi filmmakers will use AI for good and noble ends, but recommends they start simple

DHAHRAN: When William “Wink” Winkler of Samford University landed in Saudi Arabia earlier this month for the 10th edition of the Saudi Film Festival, held in Dhahran, he felt he had discovered a new frontier in cinema and technology.

At the invitation of the American Chamber of Commerce and US Consulate in Dhahran, the instructor of digital arts brought with him a wealth of knowledge and experience to conduct a masterclass in artificial intelligence in filmmaking.

However, during his week-long visit, Winkler also gained a fresh perspective on the Saudi film industry, its burgeoning local talent, and how breakthroughs in AI will transform the way movies are made in the Kingdom.

“I learned that the Saudi people are passionate and excited,” Winkler told Arab News. “They can tell amazing stories, original Saudi stories, and as they start to embrace new and emerging technology, that will help them to do that.”




William “Wink” Winkler

AI is still considered an emerging technology, but one that is evolving rapidly. In just the past two years, generative AI programs have progressed from producing janky text and surreal images to creating prose and visuals that could pass as human-authored.

As a giant aggregator of sorts, AI can instantly sift through vast amounts of data in an instant and use existing scripts and screenplays to identify patterns and generate curated story ideas.

While the creative aspect of AI is still imperfect and causes some discomfort among screenwriters, the technology has many other more rudimentary applications in the filmmaking process.




AI could make work easier by automating parts of the filmmaking process that are grueling and time-consuming, says digital arts instructor William “Wink” Winkler. (Supplied)

In pre-production, for instance, AI can help streamline location scouting by analyzing images and videos in real time to suggest settings based on a prompt. It can also cut casting time by instantaneously analyzing audition tapes to identify which actor best fits a particular character.

Post-production is another area where AI will transform filmmaking by using automated editing tools, which can analyze footage and accurately suggest instant edits based on factors like composition and pacing.

It can also assist with traditionally manual tasks, such as color grading, sound design, and visual effects.

DID YOUKNOW?

• AI can sift through vast amounts of data in an instant and use existing screenplays to generate story ideas.

In pre-production, AI could help streamline location scouting and cut casting time by analyzing footage.

In post-production, AI could automate editing and assist with color grading, sound design, and visual effects.

Many filmmakers already use computer-generated imagery — or CGI — to digitally create an asset, character, or effect that was not caught on camera. This advancement has thereby automated parts of the process that were often grueling and time-consuming.

CGI has also benefited from recent AI advancements with more curated algorithms that can generate realistic characters and create fantastical environments from thin air, reducing the need for extensive practical effects or location shoots.

However, AI in filmmaking is not without its issues. The tool will undoubtedly negate many jobs in the industry, while machine-generated stories might seem inauthentic, lacking in depth, relatability, and human spirit.




AI art by Omar Alabdulhadi

“Films invoke emotion, and they can create feelings because they’re told from a human story,” said Winkler. “And humans have felt feelings and have dealt with real human problems. And the computer hasn’t.

“All it can do is read what has been written and repeat it, but it doesn’t actually know what to say, or how to convey it. It can only try to replicate what a human said before.”

There are also ongoing concerns about data protection and bias in AI algorithms — something that has been an issue for social media for some time, as the algorithm merely mimics what already exists.




William “Wink” Winkler along with fellow US expert Travis Blaise who flew in to Dhahran to conduct workshops for the Saudi Film Festival. (AI art by Omar Alabdulhadi)

AI systems have a tendency to perpetuate and amplify demographic and racial biases. This can lead to discriminatory outcomes that are not inclusive, such as only generating characters it deems conventionally beautiful — oftentimes slim, blonde, and light-skinned.

Another consideration is the ethics of plagiarism, as AI pulls from existing works created by humans and generates an entirely new work without providing credit.

To manage the potential for plagiarism and the amplification of harmful biases by AI systems and those employing them, Winkler believes a thoughtful discussion leading to robust regulation is required.

“There’s always going to be evil people. We can fight it, just like we’ve always fought it — through rules and regulations,” he said.

“I think that creating communities and discussions at small local levels — to larger governance levels — creates some guardrails around what’s happening. The more ethical, morally good people get involved to help fight the evil, the better.”

Sora is a groundbreaking text-to-video AI model developed by OpenAI — the firm behind ChatGPT — that takes written prompts and converts them into dynamic videos.

The technology can instantly generate high-quality videos with detailed scenes and complex camera movements — with just a few written descriptions.




Surreal AI art collage by Saudi creator Omar Alabdulhadi. (Supplied)

There are concerns, however, about the potential misuse of programs like Sora to create “deepfakes” — digital forgeries that take a human likeness and fabricate images of them saying or doing things that never happened in reality.

These fabricated images can look and seem so realistic that it can be difficult to distinguish between what is real and what is not. Besides the obvious reputational risks, such deepfakes could also undermine trust in institutions and even lead to conflict.

In the film world, such technology could also cost jobs. Why would studios hire human actors if the AI can make their digital likeness do and say anything without rehearsal — performing better than the original, perhaps?




This image, which is part of the "Salt" short-film series by Fabian Stelzer and was created via Stable Diffusion. (Supplied)

Winkler believes Saudi filmmakers will use AI for good and noble ends — but recommends they start simple.

“I think the place that I would start is actually not in AI,” he said. “Start with a journal and a piece of paper and a pen — and document. Get the stories from your mother, your grandmother, your grandfather, your great-grandmother and your great-grandfather.

“Everyone’s ancestors have done amazing things, and that should be documented and shared.”




Surreal AI art collage by Saudi creator Omar Alabdulhadi. (Supplied)

One Saudi creator who is dabbling in AI is Dhahran resident Omar Al-Abdulhadi. While he believes AI technology has not yet been perfected, he is keen to see the market thrive and grow in the creative industries.

“All the anti-AI artists will accept the fact that AI is the future,” Al-Abdulhadi told Arab News, acknowledging the seeming inevitability of the technology’s adoption. But, with the right regulation and careful use, it does not have to be bad.

Winkler agrees. Furthermore, he believes the Kingdom is ideally placed to help this emerging industry grow. With such a young population made up of digital natives, Winkler says Saudi creatives can be future leaders in the field.

“The technology is not available right now, but I imagine that it will be very soon,” he said. “I don’t have the team or the time to do it — but maybe the Saudis can do it and change visual effects forever.”

 


What Are We Buying Today: ‘The Comfort Zone’ activewear, balancing functionality and aesthetics

Updated 26 June 2025
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What Are We Buying Today: ‘The Comfort Zone’ activewear, balancing functionality and aesthetics

For those of us who are allergic to polyester, finding suitable activewear can be a real challenge. Fortunately, The Comfort Zone offers an impressive range of activewear made from nylon and breathable fabrics. This Saudi brand is a breath of fresh air for anyone seeking comfort without compromising on style. 

One of its standout products is the compression set, which features a breathable fabric that not only feels soft against the skin but also provides a flattering fit. The way it tightens and supports the body is truly remarkable, making you look good while feeling comfortable during workouts. The Comfort Zone has perfected the balance between functionality and aesthetics, which is often hard to find in activewear. 

In addition to its compression sets, the brand offers stylish activewear jackets in vibrant colors to elevate any workout outfit. These jackets are perfect for layering and add a pop of color to your gym wear.  

For those warm summer days, The Comfort Zone has a delightful collection of summer dresses made from 100 percent cotton. These are not only chic but also practical, keeping you cool and comfortable. 

What sets The Comfort Zone apart is its commitment to avoiding polyester in its designs. The brand takes great pride in this policy, aiming to create activewear that is not only functional but also health conscious. Nylon is a fantastic alternative; it is a cold fabric that absorbs sweat well and allows for maximum breathability, making it ideal for active lifestyles.

The product line is diverse and reasonably priced: For SR160 ($43) you can purchase unique lab coats and 100 percent cotton scrubs, perfect for those in professional settings. The range also includes shorts; wide, comfortable sport pants; and yoga and pilates pants, catering to various fitness needs. 

More details are available on instagram.com/thecomfortzone.clothes/


Celebrities converge on Venice for Bezos-Sanchez wedding gala

Updated 26 June 2025
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Celebrities converge on Venice for Bezos-Sanchez wedding gala

  • Bill Gates, Orlando Bloom and the Queen of Jordan were among the latest arrivals
  • Event has stirred a debate about its impact on one of the world’s most beautiful cities

VENICE: Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and journalist Lauren Sanchez began three days of lavish wedding celebrations in Venice on Thursday with tight security shielding their VIP guests from protesters.

Bill Gates, Orlando Bloom and the Queen of Jordan were among the latest arrivals, joining Oprah Winfrey, Kris Jenner and Kim and Khloe Kardashian.

US President Donald Trump’s daughter Ivanka and son-in-law Jared Kushner, who showed up on Tuesday, have used the extra time for sightseeing and shopping.

Some 200-250 A-listers from show business, politics and finance are expected to take part in what has been widely dubbed “wedding of the century,” estimated to cost around $50 million.

The event has stirred a debate about its impact on one of the world’s most beautiful cities, with protesters seeing it as an example of Venice being gift-wrapped for ultra-rich outsiders, but others enjoying the spectacle and the spending.

An activist climbed one of the poles in the main St. Mark’s Square on Thursday, unfurling a banner with the words “The 1 percent ruins the world” to protest against the presence of the billionaire Bezos in Venice.

Guests were gathering on Thursday evening in the cloisters of Madonna dell’Orto, a medieval church in the central district of Cannaregio that hosts masterpieces by 16th century painter Tintoretto.

The city council banned pedestrians and water traffic from the area from 4.30 p.m. (1430 GMT) until midnight, to provide security and seclusion for the partygoers.

Bezos, 61, and Sanchez, 55, landed in Venice via helicopter on Wednesday and took up residence in the luxury Aman hotel, where rooms with a view of the Grand Canal go for at least 4,000 euros ($4,686) per night.

They are set to exchange vows on Friday on the small island of San Giorgio, opposite St. Mark’s Square, in a ceremony which, according to a senior City Hall official, will have no legal status under Italian law.

Some have speculated that the couple have already legally wed in the United States, sparing them from the bureaucracy associated with an Italian marriage.

Celebrations will conclude on Saturday with the main wedding bash to be held at one of the halls of the Arsenale, a vast former medieval shipyard turned into an art space in the eastern Castello district.

The “No Space for Bezos” movement is planning further demonstrations against an event they see as a sell-off of Venice, but by no means are all the locals hostile.

Politicians, hoteliers and other residents say high-end events, rather than multitudes of low-spending daytrippers, are a better way to support the local economy, and dismiss the protesters as a fringe minority.

“If you look at what concretely the Bezos wedding brings for the good of Venice, there are only advantages and no disadvantages,” Mattia Brandi, a local tour leader, told Reuters.

“If anything is different, it is because of the protesters ... They don’t realize that it is them who are disrupting the quiet life of the city,” he added.

Venice has hosted scores of VIP weddings. US actor George Clooney and human rights lawyer Amal Alamuddin tied the knot there in 2014, and Indian billionaires Vinita Agarwal and Muqit Teja did so in 2011, without significant disruptions.

Bezos, executive chair of e-commerce giant Amazon and No. 4 on Forbes’ billionaires list, got engaged to Sanchez in 2023, four years after the collapse of his 25-year marriage to MacKenzie Scott.


You’ve heard about NYC Democratic candidate for mayor Zohran Mamdani, but what about his US Syrian wife, Rama Duwaji?

Based in Brooklyn, Duwaji creates art that centers on pro-Palestinian and feminist themes. (AFP)
Updated 26 June 2025
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You’ve heard about NYC Democratic candidate for mayor Zohran Mamdani, but what about his US Syrian wife, Rama Duwaji?

As the United States turns its attention to New York City’s Democratic candidate for mayor Zohran Mamdani, many are eager to learn more about his wife, Rama Duwaji.

Duwaji is an artist of Syrian descent whose work has been featured by acclaimed outlets such as The New Yorker, The Washington Post, BBC, Apple, Spotify, VICE, and the Tate Modern in London. Now based in Brooklyn, Duwaji creates art that centers on political and feminist themes.

Her digital illustrations—prominently showcased on Instagram—often reflect her political beliefs. Among her recent work, Duwaji criticized the arrest of Mahmoud Khalil, the Columbia University protester detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on March 8, 2025. She has also spoken out against police violence toward pro-Palestinian demonstrators and spotlighted human interest stories, including intimate portraits of bakers in Gaza.

The couple made headlines six weeks ago when Mamdani shared their wedding photos from earlier this year, displaying them across New York City, including in the subway system, as a public stand against online harassment.

“Rama isn’t just my wife,” Mamdani said. “She’s an incredible artist who deserves to be known on her own terms. You can critique my views, but not my family.”

The pair met on a dating app in New York City and married in December 2024, according to reports. Following Mamdani’s victory in the Democratic primary yesterday, Duwaji posted a black-and-white photo strip of the couple with a simple caption: “Couldn’t possibly be prouder.” 


2025 travel ideas: This year’s great escapes 

Updated 26 June 2025
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2025 travel ideas: This year’s great escapes 

Arab News writers share insights on some of their favorite destinations. 

PARIS 

Paris in the springtime? Non, merci. Summer is by far the best time to visit. With many Parisians away on holiday and fewer fellow tourists to compete with, the Metro, boulevards, boat trips, bistros, pavement cafés and museums will all be quieter. 

If you’re looking for culture, invest in the official Paris Museum Pass, which gives you access to more than 50 museums and monuments (but not the Eiffel tower, which has its own booking system). Also note that for some sites, including the Louvre, it’s necessary to book a timeslot. 

One must-see? The Musée Rodin, a hidden gem full of the artist’s breathtaking sculptures and boasting a charming restaurant in its elegant garden. Although it’s close to the Eiffel Tower, it’s usually quiet. One must-do? Swim in the Seine at one of five supervised sites between July 5 and Aug. 31, or in the open-air riverside Joséphine Baker pool. Warning: Do not watch the movie “Under Paris” beforehand. 

Jonathan Gornall 

MALLORCA 

Despite recent tensions over tourism, Mallorca remains one of the most welcoming places I know. The largest of the Balearic Islands is far more than the sum of its picture-perfect parts; it’s a place with soul and a unique cultural presence. Many come here seeking a slower rhythm, a certain stillness. Some say the “Isla de la Calma” is vanishing, but I’ve always found it: in the hush of Tramuntana villages, in the markets where locals linger over late-morning tapas, and in the soft blue of the sea. But Mallorca asks those seeking tranquility for something in return: attention, care, curiosity, restraint. It may slightly unkempt these days, but the island still holds a character all its own to be discovered. And in a world where nothing stays hidden for long, the question is not how to keep such places untouched, but what kind of presence we choose to have within them. 

Gabriele Malvisi 

ISTANBUL 

Istanbul’s invigorating assault on the senses is on a par with Tokyo’s, but its chaos is far less controlled — from the higgledy-piggledy groupings of hillside houses and the bustle of the Grand Bazaar to the snatches of enticing smells and sounds that emerge from every alleyway. Famously, the city straddles Asia and Europe, and that wonderful mix of influences infuses the place — as do its millennia of history as a global center of culture. The generosity and hospitality of its people is evident through the love shown to the city’s army of street cats, who lounge carelessly everywhere, receiving the respect cats believe is their due. You could spend weeks exploring Istanbul’s museums and architecture. You could spend an equal amount of time exploring its street food, bars and restaurants. You could also shop till you’re broke, or relax in its serene parks. And whatever your creed, it’s impossible not to be moved by the awesome grandeur of the Blue Mosque.  

Adam Grundey 

LOCH LOMOND 

Driving through the imposing forest on our way to the chocolate box village of Luss on the shores of Scotland’s Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, each bend in the road offered a glimpse of breathtaking beauty: lochs, towering oak and pine trees, and craggy mountaintops misted in fog. The absolute highlight of our trip to the area last summer, though, was the Three Lochs Forest Drive near Aberfoyle. The awe-inspiring Trossachs scenery is accessible even if you can’t hike, with plenty of places to park up and take in wonderous views amid the peace and quiet of the area known as the gateway from the Scottish lowlands to the highlands. The storied Stirling Castle, home to many a Scottish monarch, sits on an imposing volcanic crag less than an hour’s drive from Loch Lomond, while the area’s rich history begins with Neolithic settlements and encompasses such famous figures as Robert the Bruce. 

Saffiya Ansari 

GEORGIA 

I arrived in Georgia in the heart of winter — no crowds, bare trees, and snow-capped mountains resting peacefully. This wasn’t the Georgia of summer postcards, but a country at rest, quietly revealing its soul. Tbilisi, with its redbrick houses and winding alleys whispering centuries-old stories, felt intimate. I stood beneath the towering Chronicle of Georgia, its carved figures frozen in silent narrative, and later met the Mother of Georgia, sword and bowl in hand — a symbol of protection and hospitality. 

In Mtskheta, the morning unfolded in the Check-In Garden café over rich hot chocolate and molten-cheese Khachapuri — comfort food that felt like a warm hug. The smallest details charmed me: streetside pomegranate juice, colorful Churchkhela sweets dangling in windows, and locals ready with stories or recommendations. 

A road trip through Borjomi and Gudauri showcased winter’s magic: paragliding over frozen peaks, skiing down hushed slopes, racing snow buggies through pine forests. Georgia doesn’t demand your attention — it wins it, slowly, like a story shared by a crackling fire. 

Nada Hameed 

THE MALDIVES 

The Maldives is the perfect setting to unwind, reconnect with nature and experience total peace. Surrounded by lush greenery and turquoise waters, it’s a place where time slows down. You can explore vibrant marine life in any of its many resorts, even right outside your villa. We took a boat trip to swim with manta rays — an unforgettable experience. The calm, clear waters make it easy to immerse yourself in the beauty beneath the surface, and it truly feels like entering another world. At night, the lack of light pollution makes it perfect for stargazing in complete serenity. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a shooting star.  

But a visit to this nation of islands isn’t about checking off a list of activities — it’s about stillness, simplicity, and being fully present. The Maldives offers a rare escape; the outside world fades away, and nature becomes the only thing that matters. 

Hams Saleh 

MEXICO CITY 

While Mexico is famed for its all-inclusive beach resorts, Mexico City — aka CDMX — offers something more real: a true melting pot of history, culture, art and food. Standing in the Zócalo, surrounded by the Metropolitan Cathedral (built over the ruins of an Aztec temple) and the National Palace (which features stunning murals by Diego Rivera) is like being transported back in time, while the upscale neighborhoods of Polanco and the hipster areas like Condesa and Roma Norte offer a stark contrast. The lush tree-lined streets of these areas are full of hidden gems, from high-end boutiques and Instagrammable eateries to unassuming cafes and quaint markets. And the real beauty of CDMX lies in its pleasant surprises, like eating probably the best sandwich I’ve ever had from a street vendor, or stumbling upon a pop-up market with dozens of local artisan stallholders. Much like the city itself, a holiday here is full of unpredicted joys. 

Zaira Lakhpatwala 

OMAN 

Over many years in the Gulf, Oman has become my go-to place when people visit, for several reasons: The Sultan’s palace, a brilliantly colorful work of art; the crystal-clear waters of its beaches; the bustling souks; and the Royal Opera House — simple, but ornate inside and out. I remember fondly sitting with my mother at a café on the beach in Muscat’s embassy district, the sea lapping over the white sands. Nothing spectacular happened, but it was a perfect moment. Away from the city and a short drive from Nizwa is Oman’s highest point of Jebel Shams. The hike along the valley’s edge takes four to five hours — well worth it for the spectacular views of the twisted mountains and the lush, green wadi below. Then there’s Jebel Akhdar, from which you can take in stunningly beautiful landscapes lined with small plantations and tiny villages. Whether you’re in the city or wandering through its mountainous landscape, Oman is a calm and welcoming place. 

Peter Harrison 

BALI 

Its lush rice terraces, ancient temples, volcanic mountains, and postcard-perfect beaches — and its nightlife — have made Bali famous. But what truly sets it apart as a life-changing experience is its people. I spent a month volunteering as an English-language teacher for young children in a quiet village in the heart of Ubud. Mornings began with Canang Sari — locals place offerings of rice and incense on their doorsteps as small acts of gratitude to the gods. I joined school celebrations of the full and half moon, and even attended a funeral that felt more like a festival. The villagers, living simply yet radiating warmth, permanently reshaped my understanding of happiness. It doesn’t come from achievements or luxury, but from gratitude, service, and a genuine connection with yourself, your surroundings, and people who share your values. Yes, the beaches are stunning, and the parties are vibrant, but the real magic is seeing Bali through the eyes of those who call it home. 

Sherouk Zakaria 

AMSTERDAM 

One of my all-time favorite summer destinations, there’s something about the mix of art, history, and chill vibes that just feels right about Amsterdam. Whether you’re spending hours wandering through the Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum, or just stumbling on cool street art in random corners, or strolling along the city’s many beautiful canals while chomping down warm stroopwafels, the Dutch capital is the perfect place to visit if you’re in need of inspiration. Just a short drive outside of the city, you’ll find those classic windmills and peaceful fields that look like they belong in a storybook. And for a fun but laid-back night, you can’t go wrong with Pllek in Amsterdam Noord, with its eclectic menu, upcycled decor, waterfront views, and a vibe that blends beach bar with urban cool. 

Shyama Krishna Kumar 


REVIEW: ‘F1: The Movie’ — high-octane entertainment and old-school charm

Updated 26 June 2025
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REVIEW: ‘F1: The Movie’ — high-octane entertainment and old-school charm

DUBAI: There’s a moment in “F1: The Movie,” where you’ll feel like you're flying, all while strapped into a tiny metal box hurtling at a speed you can't comprehend. This is when you realize this isn’t just another sports drama; it’s a sleek love letter to Formula 1, anchored by Brad Pitt’s enduring star power and a surprisingly effective dynamic with relative newcomer Damson Idris.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by FORMULA 1 (@f1)

Pitt plays Sonny Hayes, a grizzled former driver lured back to the thrills of the pit lane for one last go. He’s all swagger and scars, but yes, he’s still got it. Pitt’s presence brings gravitas to a film that flirts with the edges of cheesiness but never forgets its emotional core. Whether he’s behind the wheel or delivering motivational growls in the garage, he sells it — and then some.

Opposite him is Idris as Joshua Pearce, a rising star struggling to reconcile his love for the sport with the noise that comes with the fame and money, who becomes Sonny’s reluctant protege. Idris brings a fresh, fiery intensity that balances Pitt’s seasoned cool. The strained mentor-mentee trope has been done to death, but it’s portrayed with sincerity and the right amount of tension here.

Additionally, Kerry Condon delivers a sharp, emotionally solid performance as the team’s no-nonsense engineer, anchoring the high-octane chaos with quiet authority. Her scenes with Pitt crackle with wit and chemistry, and deliver some of the bigger laughs.

Director Joseph Kosinski (“Top Gun: Maverick”) brings his signature high-octane style to the film, especially the race sequences. The sound design is impeccable, the cinematography breathtaking. And composer Hans Zimmer's layered, gorgeously synth-drenched background score goes well with a soundtrack that thumps out rock one minute and smooth R'n'B next.

The film builds toward a final showdown in Abu Dhabi, and while the climax is predictable, it’s executed with such unapologetic flair that you can’t help but cheer. The Yas Marina circuit has never looked more cinematic — it’s the perfect backdrop for a finish that’s equal parts cheesy and thrilling.

“F1” isn’t rewriting the sports-movie playbook, but it really doesn’t need to. It’s crowd-pleasing, adrenaline-fueled, masterfully executed entertainment with more than enough heart to keep it grounded.