PARIS: French star actor Gerard Depardieu, on trial for sexual assault, told the Paris court Tuesday that he was not in the habit of “groping” women, and called the #MeToo movement a “reign of terror.”
“I don’t see why I would go around groping a woman,” he said in his first statement at the trial, in which he is charged with sexual assault on two women during the shooting of a film in 2021.
Depardieu said he was “not like that” in response to the accusations, adding that “there are vices that are alien to me.”
Depardieu, 76, who has acted in more than 200 films and television series, has been accused of improper behavior by around 20 women but this is the first case to come to trial.
“I deny all of it,” he told the court Tuesday.
He is the highest-profile figure to face accusations in French cinema’s response to the #MeToo movement, which he told the court Tuesday “will become a reign of terror.”
The trial relates to charges of sexual assault during the filming in 2021 of “Les Volets Verts” (“The Green Shutters“) by director Jean Becker.
Anouk Grinberg, a prominent actor who appeared in the film, has backed the two plaintiffs — a set dresser, 54, identified only as Amelie, and a 34-year-old assistant director. Both women allege sexual violence.
Giving his account of events during the shoot, Depardieu told the court that “it was a Friday, it was hot, it was humid. I weigh 150 kilos (331 pounds) and I was in a bad mood.”
He said that after a heated discussion with Amelie about choices on set, he grabbed her by the hips but only “so I wouldn’t slip.”
Amelie, testifying after Depardieu, said that Depardieu had actually behaved like a “wild animal” and “wasn’t at all the same man that you see here today.”
He was “constantly making remarks about women,” including on their attire, she said.
She reiterated her account, first reported in February last year, on how she had suffered sexual assault, harassment and sexist insults during the filming in September 2021.
She said Depardieu made “obscene remarks.”
Asked why she had not come forward immediately, Amelie said: “I didn’t want to talk about it, I felt humiliated. I was having a great run professionally and I knew that if I filed a police report, it would be the end of the film.”
Grinberg said previously that Depardieu constantly made “salacious remarks” during shooting, and told AFP that producers who hired him knew they were “hiring an abuser.”
But Depardieu challenged the accusation relating to the use of dirty language.
The trial, initially scheduled for October 2024, had been postponed due to the actor’s ill health.
His lawyer said back then that Depardieu had undergone a heart bypass operation and suffered from diabetes that was aggravated by the stress of the forthcoming trial.
Depardieu became a star in France from the 1980s with roles in “The Last Metro,” “Police” and “Cyrano de Bergerac,” before Peter Weir’s “Green Card” also made him a Hollywood celebrity.
He later acted in global productions including Kenneth Branagh’s “Hamlet,” Ang Lee’s “Life of Pi” and Netflix’s “Marseille” series.
Depardieu denies ‘groping’ women in France sex abuse trial
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Depardieu denies ‘groping’ women in France sex abuse trial
- Depardieu said he was “not like that” in response to the accusations, adding that “there are vices that are alien to me“
- “I deny all of it,” he told the court Tuesday
Al-Oudah Mosque restoration in Diriyah revives Najdi heritage
- Second phase of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Project for Historic Mosques aims to preserve the mosque’s rich history and Najdi architectural heritage
- Recognizing its cultural significance, the project will use traditional Najdi construction methods, including mud and natural materials suited to the desert climate
RIYADH: The historic Al-Oudah Mosque in Diriyah, a key heritage site in Riyadh region, is being restored as part of a national project, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The second phase of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Project for Historic Mosques aims to preserve the mosque’s rich history and Najdi architectural heritage, restoring it to its former splendor.
One of the region’s oldest worship sites, Al-Oudah Mosque has been restored three times, with the last renovation about 15 years ago, according to the SPA.
Recognizing its cultural significance, the project will use traditional Najdi construction methods, including mud and natural materials suited to the desert climate.
The renovation will expand the mosque from 794 sq. m for 510 worshippers to 1,369 sq. m for 992 worshippers.
This expansion reflects a commitment to preserving history while meeting the community’s evolving needs, the SPA reported.
It is one of 30 mosques in 13 regions in phase two of the project, which includes six in Riyadh, five in Makkah, four in Madinah, three in Asir, and two each in the Eastern Province, Jouf and Jazan. The Northern Borders, Tabuk, Baha, Najran, Hail and Qassim each have one mosque in the scheme.
Phase two follows phase one, completed in 2018, in which 30 mosques were restored in 10 regions. Saudi companies and heritage restoration experts are leading the development efforts, the SPA reported.
The project balances traditional and modern construction standards, ensuring the sustainability of mosque components while preserving heritage.
Saudi companies and engineers specializing in heritage restoration are leading the development efforts, according to the report.
The project’s four strategic objectives include restoring historic mosques for worship, preserving architectural authenticity, highlighting the Kingdom’s cultural heritage, and enhancing the religious and cultural significance of religious sites.
Saudi creators bring a modern twist to ‘Fawazeer Ramadan’ for TikTok
DUBAI: The “Fawazeer Ramadan” franchise, originally made famous in Egypt by iconic performers Nelly and Sherihan, has been reimagined for the TikTok generation.
The classic TV show, known for its musical riddles and whimsical performances, has been a staple of Ramadan entertainment for decades.
This year, Saudi creators Lama Najjar and Mohammed Subaie returned for their second year adapting the format, bringing a fresh and modern twist to the beloved show for a new audience.
“Honestly, it was such a fun and beautiful experience! When we first started, we never expected people to engage with it so much,” Najjar told Arab News.
“‘Fawazeer Ramadan’ is part of so many people’s memories, and it felt great to bring it back in a new way that fits today’s generation,” added Subaie. “TikTok gave us the space to connect directly with people and see their instant reactions to each episode.”
As Ramadan comes to a close, the creators reflected on the evolution of the show, which featured challenges and riddles.
“This year, we wanted to bring new ideas and challenges that people might not expect,” said Subaie. “We’ve improved a lot in terms of filming and editing, and even the riddles themselves are a bit smarter and harder!”
Najjar, deeply involved in shaping the content, emphasized the importance of connecting with the audience. “Honestly, I like to be part of everything! From writing the riddles to choosing the ideas and how we present them. I love adding my personal touch and making sure the content feels close to the audience and reflects my style. And of course, interacting with the audience is a huge part of what I do — they’re the reason for our success, so I always want to make sure they feel connected,” she shared.
The show has resonated with younger audiences, many of whom are experiencing “Fawazeer Ramadan” for the first time, according to Subaie.
“Even those who never watched the original ‘Fawazeer’ are now loving the idea. People are waiting for each episode, and that’s the best proof that it connects with them,” said Subaie.
Your guide to Art Week Riyadh: From flagship shows to studio tours in JAX District
RIYADH: Art Week Riyadh’s inaugural edition is set to take place from April 6-13 under the theme “At The Edge.” The event will feature works from more than 45 galleries, private and institutional collections, and a public program of talks — here is your guide to getting the best out of Art Week Riyadh.
Flagship exhibition: ‘At The Edge’
First up, visitors will be able to immerse themselves in the event’s flagship exhibition which is curated around three thematic threads — “Everyday Life,” “Landscapes,” and “Motifs.”
The exhibition features contributions from prominent galleries across the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Europe, including A. Gorgi Gallery (Tunisia), Ahlam Gallery (Saudi Arabia), Albareh Art Gallery (Bahrain), Al Markhiya Gallery (Qatar), L’Art Pur Gallery (Saudi Arabia), AV Gallery (Saudi Arabia), Ayyam Gallery (UAE, UK), Carbon 12 (UAE), Efie Gallery (UAE), Experimenter (India), Galerie Krinzinger (Austria), Gallery Misr (Egypt), Galerie La La Lande (France), Galleria Continua (Brazil, China, Cuba, France, Italy, UAE), Green Art Gallery (UAE), Hewar Art Gallery (Saudi Arabia), Hunna Art (Kuwait), Lawrie Shabibi (UAE), Layan Culture (Saudi Arabia), Le LAB (Egypt), Leila Heller Gallery (UAE, USA), Lisson Gallery (China, UK, USA), Mennour (France, UK), Nature Morte (India), Perrotin (China, France, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, USA), Sabrina Amrani (Spain), Selma Feriani (Tunisia), The Pill® (France, Turkey), The Third Line (UAE), Tabari Artspace (UAE) and Wadi Finan Art Gallery (Jordan).
Al Mousa Center in central Riyadh
Up next, visitors should head over to the Al Mousa Center in central Riyadh where more than 15 galleries will present both solo and group exhibitions specially conceived for Art Week Riyadh.
Once a bustling commercial complex, the center is now a cultural destination that houses around 20 art galleries. Galleries participating in Art Week Riyadh include Abdullah Hammas Studio, Abstract Art Gallery, Ahlam Gallery, Alajilan Gallery, Alestudio, AMA Art Venue, Art Arif Gallery, Art Connection, AV Gallery, China Saudi Cultural Art Association, ERRM Art Gallery, Frame Art Gallery, Kadi Art Gallery, Kenz Gallery, Mahd Alfnon Gallery, Marsami Art Gallery, Ola Art Gallery, Takeib For Arts, Tequin Art Gallery, WHJ ALLON and Wrd Art Gallery.
Invited exhibitions
JAX District will also host three exhibitions by invited collections, offering a rare insight into Saudi Arabia’s evolving cultural identity. Presented under the title “Collections in Dialogue,” these exhibitions emphasize the role of patronage and collecting in shaping and preserving visual culture.
The section includes a curated presentation of artworks from the collection of the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra). Featuring works by artists such as Do Ho Suh, Maha Malluh, Michelangelo Pistoletto, Mohammad Alfaraj, Hazem Harb, Gregory Mahoney, Moath Alofi, and Sultan bin Fahad, the exhibition highlights the interplay between material memory, transformation, and the landscapes that shape identity.
Meanwhile, Art Jameel will present a selection of eight single-channel artworks from its collection that highlight the diverse and evolving landscape of experimental film and video art practices in the region. This presentation brings together video works by artists from Saudi Arabia and the Arab world, largely made in the 2010s, that reflect on a decade marked by profound transformations. Many of the featured works are early and foundational works by major artists such as Ahaad Alamoudi, Hiwa K, Bouchra Khalili, Basim Magdy, Ahmed Mater, and others.
Also, “Abstract Horizons: Three Generations of Saudi Art” by the Saudi Research and Media Group (SRMG) will go on show. Borrowing its title from a work by Saudi artist Mohammed Al-Saleem, the exhibition draws from SRMG’s collection to explore the progression of Saudi abstraction through the practices of key figures such as Al-Saleem, Abdulhalim Radwi and Taha Al-Sabban, who merged global influences with local traditions. Their legacy is reinterpreted by a new generation of creatives, including Raeda Ashour, Rashed AlShashai and Zaman Jassim.
Talks, workshops and studio tours
A series of talks and workshops will reflect on themes and questions facing the visual arts in Riyadh, more widely in Saudi Arabia, and around the world. Curated by Shumon Basar and titled “How to Art World? Lessons in Value,” the program will run at JAX District.
A “Moving Image” program will highlight the medium’s capacity to explore complex personal, cultural and social narratives, and feature the work of Theaster Gates, Zineb Sedira, Hicham Berrada, Bani Abidi, Laurent Grasso, Afra Al Dhaheri, Mohamed Bourouissa, Sarah Brahim, Farideh Lashai, and Hashel Al-Lamki.
At JAX District, some of Saudi Arabia’s leading artists — including Ahmed Mater, Ayman Zedani, Marwah AlMugait, and Muhannad Shono — will open the doors to their studios, while resident galleries Athr, Hafez and Lift will present a lineup of exhibitions, panel discussions, and interactive workshops.
The Saudi Arabia Museum of Contemporary Art (SAMoCA) will present the exhibitions titled “Art of the Kingdom” and “Adaptability Ceramics,” alongside a series of workshops and pop-ups.
Brazilian actress Sabrina Petraglia bridges cultures through film in the UAE
DUBAI: Brazilian actress Sabrina Petraglia, known for her roles in TV and cinema, has found a new home and purpose in the Middle East.
Since moving to Dubai in January 2023 with her husband and three children, Petraglia has embraced the region’s culture and is making inroads in her attempt to forge cross cultural understanding.
“I never imagined loving the Middle East this much. Whatever I had imagined about the Middle East was totally wrong. The life here is incredible, safe, so beautiful. I like the mentality here. I feel that here your dreams are possible if you work hard,” she told Arab News.
Petraglia created her latest project, “Ocean of Mothers,” in Dubai in January, in a move that she says was the first time a Brazilian production hit the silver screen in the UAE.
The film follows three friends — Thais, Erika and Zilda — who connect through motherhood in Santos, Brazil. Despite their busy lives, their friendship becomes a source of strength and support. The film touches on themes like losing one’s identity as a mother, feeling overwhelmed, mental health struggles, and the importance of having a support network.
“We started by booking a room for 60 people,” she said, then the number of guests kept increasing until it reached around 400 guests. “When I saw the cinema full of people and a lot of women from different nationalities, I cried. I could not believe it,” she said.
“I saw a lot of support from women here, because the film is about women. It was so precious for me,” she added.
Petraglia is keen to foster collaboration between Brazilian and Arab artists.
“This is one big dream of mine to work with Saudi filmmakers and show Brazilian culture here and sharing Middle Eastern stories with Brazilians also,” she explained.
“Here, I can see big opportunities, and I’d like to show not just to Brazilians, but to the world, what it’s like here. The cinema is the best way to do this,” she said.
Inspired by her interactions with women in the UAE, Petraglia said she is working on new projects that challenge stereotypes about motherhood and female empowerment.
“For now, it is all only on paper, but I am looking for good partners in Brazil. I am speaking to big channels in Brazil,” she said.
Ahmed Helmy to be honored at US, Swedish film festivals
DUBAI: Egyptian actor Ahmed Helmy is set to be honored at the 4th edition of the Hollywood Arab Film Festival in California and the Malmo Arab Film Festival in Sweden in April.
The actor, who started his TV career in 1993 before he landed a role in 1998 film “Aboud Ala El Hedoud,” will make an appearance at both events.
The Hollywood Arab Film Festival will take place in Glendale, California, from April 9-13, while the 15th edition of the Malmo Arab Film Festival will run from April 29-May 5.
Helmy, 55, is a comedic actor known for his roles in “Excuse My French” (2014) and “Sorry To Disturb” (2008). He also made a guest appearance in 2024’s Egyptian-Saudi co-production “The Tale of Daye’s Family,” by filmmaker Karim El-Shenawy.
