Between them are two Egyptian films. Learn about the international selections at the Red Sea Festival

 The Red Sea International Film Festival unveiled the “Global Selections” program. For its fifth session, which consists of 12 films produced in 2025 that were shown at international festivals, and the festival is showing them for the first time in the region. The program includes 9 premieres in the Middle East and North Africa region, in addition to two Egyptian films that are being shown for the first time in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia after being shown at the El Gouna Festival, which are: the film “The Colony” and “The Colony.” (The Settlement) by director Mohamed Rashad, who won the El Gouna Bronze Star for Best Feature Film, and “Cologne” (My Father’s Scent) directed by Mohamed Siam; Both of them delve into the depths of family relationships and their complexities, and focus on the topic of fatherhood from poignant human angles and with remarkable acting performances.

 

In addition to that, the program includes a Japanese film called KOKUHO, nominated for an Oscar, and the film GIRL, the first experiences of Asian star Shaw. Chi directorial film, the French-Rwandan film KWIBUKE, REMEMBER starring Sonia Rolland, the film ERUPCJA starring international singer Charli A unique thrill and drama.

The program also includes the Oscar-nominated Swiss film LATE SHIFT, which showcases the life of a nurse on a day full of challenges, and the film SAIPAN, which recalls the scenes of the 2002 World Cup bid, in which the Saudi national team played a pivotal role, while the film accompanies PRIMAVERA The audience takes a journey to 18th century Venice, inspired by the world of composer Antonio Vivaldi. In addition to the winning Brazilian film at the Cannes Film Festival, THE SECRET AGENT, directed by Kleber Mendonca Filho, about an exciting political drama taking place in Brazil during military rule in 1977.

 

For his part, Faisal Baltoor, CEO, stated: For the Red Sea International Film Foundation: " The “Global Choices” program embodies A unique cinematic season this year, as it brings together 12 films that shined in major film festivals, and were carefully selected by the festival team, to present to our audience here in the heart of historic Jeddah. Out of our belief in the festival’s role in building bridges between East and West, providing cinematic experiences that enrich the cultural scene, and enhance the Kingdom’s position as a leading cinematic destination.“