An instructor from the Korean Academy of Film Arts (KAFA) gives a filmmaking lesson to Saudi Arabian filmmakers in Riyadh in November. Courtesy of the Korean Film Council
Korea and Saudi Arabia are deepening their film industry ties, with young, talented filmmakers from the Middle Eastern country receiving valuable education under the guidance of Korean professionals.
The Korean Academy of Film Arts (KAFA), under the Korean Film Council, said Friday that it successfully concluded the academy's first-ever KAFA Boot Camp in Saudi Arabia. The month-long intensive program, which was held from Nov. 3 to 28 in Riyadh, was held in partnership with MBC Academy of Saudi Arabia.
Established in 1984, KAFA is widely known for producing prominent directors including Hur Jin-ho, Bong Joon-ho and Choi Dong-hoon. The institution trains talent in all areas of filmmaking, from pre-production to post-production, and since 2001, it has also incorporated animation.
During the program, 18 aspiring Saudi Arabian filmmakers had opportunities to learn about filmmaking, ranging from practical skills to knowledge essential for cinematic storytelling.
KAFA said participants were immersed in its renowned filmmaking curriculum over the four weeks.
KAFA professors including Noh Dong-seok (directing), Na Kyeong-chan (producing) and Choi Ju-young (cinematography) taught the participants a wide range of filmmaking topics from script development and pre-production to shooting and post-production. The participants were also given hands-on experience in creating their own short films.
To provide a deeper understanding of Korean cinema, the program also featured screenings of Korean films such as "Golden Slumber" (2018) and "Concrete Utopia" (2023). Additionally, participants had the opportunity to watch and discuss short films made by KAFA alumni for their graduation projects such as “Hall” and “Family Grave,” providing insights into the diverse range of storytelling possibilities.
Saudi Arabian filmmakers, who took part in a month-long filmmaking education course, co-hosted by the Korean Academy of Film Arts and MBC Academy of Saudi Arabia, shot a film in Riyadh in November. Courtesy of the Korean Film Council
The boot camp ended after screening six short films — “Bad Trip,” “Hurrah,” “The Last Passenger,” “Loan of Fame,” “My Mother-in-Law” and “Tulip” — that were produced by the participants. These films, showcasing the beautiful landscapes of Riyadh and the creativity of the filmmakers, received positive feedback.
“We hope this boot camp has not only equipped the participants with the technical skills but also inspired them to express themselves through the language of film,” Joh Gun-shik, executive director of KAFA, said.
The participants expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to learn from experienced Korean filmmakers and collaborate with their peers.
“The hands-on experience and guidance from the professors and crew were invaluable,” one participant was quoted as saying by KAFA. “I am proud to have been able to showcase our work at the final screening.”
Given that Saudi Arabia's entertainment industry is expected to grow rapidly, KAFA stated it plans to continue contributing to the sustainable development of the industry in both countries through cooperative projects.
“KAFA will continue to expand its global reach, fostering a community of filmmakers who can grow together through cinema, the universal language,” Joh said.