Talented filmmakers strive to build on Kuwait’s legacy

KUWAIT CITY, March 31: The film industry worldwide has become an important language that speaks to people, keeps pace with their aspirations for entertainment and development, and addresses their issues and ambitions. It constantly strives to connect with the people in one way or another, linking them to what is actually happening in society and the world.

Most developed countries consider cinema an important social platform and a gateway to progress. The proof is that the most involved in film production are Hollywood in the United States and Bollywood in India. This confirms that the film industry always reinforces and spreads cultures, because it is an important human and social tool before it is an artistic one. Cinema in Kuwait and the Gulf region remains far from achieving a global presence, despite the availability of highly qualified and knowledgeable personnel, as well as a large number of experienced stars skilled in the art of filmmaking. The real problem lies with those in charge of the industry and production. They are always preoccupied with profit and loss. This perspective has negative repercussions on the quality of film productions.

In Kuwait, the focus has been on theatrical productions and television drama, while cinematic endeavors have been sporadic and often poor, not in content but in the way they are handled. This is due to reliance on individuals with limited experience, seemingly unaware that Kuwait, long ago, when it sought to develop its cinematic landscape, produced the film “Bas Ya Bahar” (Enough, O Sea), which achieved widespread acclaim and was nominated for numerous film festivals. Similarly, the film “Al-Samt” (Silence) and other Kuwaiti cinematic works have been produced. It must be acknowledge that there is a constellation of young people constantly striving to reach filmmakers, but they always face challenges in production, funding and other areas. Their difficulties must be understood.

Artist and director Sadiq Bahbani has been in numerous international festivals and presented distinguished works such as “Let Me Be Silent” and “The Carpet.” Abdulaziz Al-Nassar, Abdullah Al-Khader and a group of young stars presented films like “Message” and “A White Lie and a Honeymoon,” among others, though these works did not achieve the desired impact. Tariq Al-Ali presented a collection of films that achieved considerable success, including “Hello Cairo,” “Ma’touq in Bangkok,” “Adnan,” “Khamis and Juma,” “Coma,” “Danger with Them,” and “An Hour’s Time.” However, Al-Ali attempted to present these films as an experienced producer, so they achieved box office numbers, although these works still need further development. The real problem of the film industry in Kuwait and the Gulf countries is the failure to convince the private sector, companies and banks to benefit from and support cinema as required.

Many of these institutions need promotion and marketing for their products, but they have not found a vision from those in charge of the film industry. Supporting the film industry could be a major gateway to a mutually beneficial and significant process for the private sector, but the problem is the lack of connection and persuasion between both parties. Nevertheless, companies specializing in such partnerships should be employed so that matters are more clearly calculated for everyone. Also, those in charge of the industry must work hard to move to a new stage of production, away from drama production and not simplifying cinematic scenes, because the difference will be very clear. Stars and technicians must also exert efforts through a real cultural understanding of the film industry, moving away from randomness and focusing on the important task to present a new cinema culture in the Gulf.

By Mufreh Hijab Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff