The Film Commission announced the selection of the feature film “Hijra” to officially represent the Kingdom in the upcoming Oscar race for the Best International Film category. This followed a thorough review that included several Saudi films and was overseen by the Saudi Film Selection Committee for the Oscars.

The committee, which includes a group of prominent Saudi filmmakers and specialists, is responsible for reviewing submitted films and selecting them according to the standards approved by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS). This year’s cycle saw the participation of a number of distinguished Saudi films, requiring the committee to conduct careful study before unanimously selecting the film “Hijra” after intensive deliberations to officially represent the Kingdom in this category.

Film Commission

A Film Commission is a government or non-profit organization that promotes a specific region as a filming destination. Its history is tied to the growth of the location shooting industry, with early commissions forming to attract film productions and boost local economies. They facilitate projects by providing location assistance, permitting guidance, and logistical support to filmmakers.

Kingdom

A “kingdom” refers to a sovereign territory or political entity ruled by a monarch, such as a king or queen. Historically, kingdoms were the dominant form of government for centuries, with examples ranging from ancient Egypt and medieval European realms to modern constitutional monarchies like the United Kingdom. While many historical kingdoms have evolved into different forms of government, the concept remains significant in understanding political history and the development of nations.

Saudi Film Selection Committee for the Oscars

The Saudi Film Selection Committee for the Oscars is a national body established by the Saudi Film Commission in 2018. Its primary role is to select and submit an official Saudi entry for the International Feature Film category at the Academy Awards (Oscars). This initiative is part of the Kingdom’s broader efforts to develop its domestic film industry following the end of a decades-long ban on public cinemas.

Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is a professional honorary organization founded in 1927 to advance the arts and sciences of motion pictures. It is best known for its annual Academy Awards, popularly known as the Oscars, which recognize artistic and technical merit in the film industry.

AMPAS

AMPAS stands for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, a professional honorary organization founded in 1927 to advance the arts and sciences of motion pictures. It is best known for its annual Academy Awards, popularly known as the Oscars, which recognize artistic and technical merit in the film industry.

Hijra

“Hijra” refers to a culturally and historically significant third gender community in South Asia, particularly in India, with roots tracing back to ancient texts like the Kama Sutra and Mahabharata. Traditionally, Hijras have held roles as performers and blessers at ceremonies, though they have faced social marginalization and legal challenges. In recent years, increased recognition, such as India’s 2014 Supreme Court ruling acknowledging them as a third gender, has aimed to protect their rights and identity.