The year 2023 has been a landmark for the Saudi Arabian film industry, showcasing not only a robust influx of international blockbusters but also highlighting significant strides in local productions. With the recent revitalization of the cinema sector in Saudi Arabia, the box office has seen unprecedented numbers, reflecting the kingdom& growing love for cinematic experiences. Here we delve into the top six movies that captivated Saudi audiences in 2023, breaking box office records and setting new benchmarks in the industry.
1.Guardians of the Sands"
Director: Ahmad Al-Munajjed
Stars: Abdullah Al-Sadhan, Huda Hussein, Amr Waked
Plot: This epic fantasy film is set in a mythical Arabian past,
where a kingdom is on the brink of destruction by supernatural forces. Abdullah Al-Sadhan stars as a brave warrior who, along with a revered sorceress played by Huda Hussein, embarks on a quest to find a legendary artifact that can save their land. Amr Waked delivers a powerful performance as the antagonist whose ambitions pose a dire threat to the realm. "Guardians of the Sands" resonated with audiences for its rich blend of Arabian folklore with high-stakes adventure.
2.Desert Falcon"
Director: Sarah Al Jarman
Stars: Khaled Nabawy, Maisa Abd Elhadi, Saleh Bakri
Plot: In this gripping action thriller,
Khaled Nabawy plays a retired intelligenceofficer who is drawn back into the field to thwart a major terrorist attack planned in the heart of Riyadh. Maisa Abd Elhadi stars as his protege, while Saleh Bakri plays the cunning villain. The movie’s intense action sequences and a compelling narrative about national security struck a chord with local audiences, making it a massive box office hit.
Read More: افلام عربي
3.Tomorrow’s Dust"
Director: Majid Al Ansari
Stars: Eyad Nassar, Dina Shihabi
Plot: "Tomorrow& Dust"
is a thought-provoking sci-fi drama that explores the impact of environmental degradation in a dystopian future where Saudi Arabia is threatened by severe sandstorms that can erase cities. Eyad Nassar plays a scientist trying to find sustainable solutions, and Dina Shihabi portrays a government official wrestling with ethical dilemmas around population control and environmental policies. The film’s topical themes and dramatic depth appealed greatly to audiences.
4.Laugh Under the Sun"
Director: Fahad Alammari
Stars: Fatima AlBanawi, Faisal Al Ameeri
Plot: This heartwarming comedy-drama follows the lives of a group of friends
who reunite for a wedding in Jeddah. As they navigate through old conflicts and new romances, the film delves into themes of friendship, love, and life choices. Fatima AlBanawi shines as the spirited bride, and Faisal Al Ameeri adds humor and depth as her best friend facing his own crossroads. Its universal appeal and relatable characters made it a favorite among Saudi viewers.
Read More: دراما كافيه
5.Shadows of History"
Director: Haifaa al-Mansour
Stars: Nasser Al Qasabi, Maram Abdulaziz
Plot: Directed by pioneering Saudi filmmaker Haifaa al-Mansour,
this historical drama set in the 1950s Saudi Arabia follows the journey of a young prince, played by Nasser Al Qasabi, who is caught between the traditional values of his kingdom and the sweeping changes brought by modernization. Maram Abdulaziz plays a visionary teacher who influences the prince’s views on education and reform. The film’s blend of history with personal and national drama attracted a wide audience.
6.Mirage & quot;
Director: Abdullah Al-Eyaf
Stars: Mohammed Alhamdan, Ahd Kamel
Plot: "Mirage" is a mystery thriller that centers around a forensic scientist
(Mohammed Alhamdan) who discovers a link between several unsolved cases and a series of illusions experienced in the desert. Ahd Kamel stars as a journalist investigating the same phenomenon, and together they uncover a conspiracy that goes beyond the natural. The intriguing plot and suspenseful storytelling captivated Saudi audiences, making it a standout film of the year. These films reflect the diverse tastes of the Saudi audience and the film industry& capacity to produce and distribute high-quality content that resonates with both local and global themes.
As the Saudi cinema landscape continues to evolve, these top grossing movies from 2023 are testament to the vibrant cultural shift in the Kingdom, celebrating a newfound embrace of the arts that promises to grow even more in the coming years.
