Saudi film director Shahad Ameen has recently completed production on her latest film, “Hijra,” a project that has been in development for three years in collaboration with Iraqi filmmaker and producer Mohamed Al-Daradji. The film, shot in various locations across eight Saudi cities, tells the story of a woman and her granddaughters, exploring the deep connections between generations of Saudi women. The cast includes Khairiya Nazmi and newcomer Lamar Feddan, with international collaborators like French editor Hervé de Luz and cinematographer Miguel Litten Menz bringing a global perspective to the narrative.
Shahad Ameen, known for her unique cinematic voice and strong ties to Saudi cultural themes, expressed her excitement about the project, stating that filming “Hijra” allowed the team to delve into the diverse cultural landscape of Saudi Arabia. The film, rooted in Saudi heritage and women’s dynamic role in society, was both a challenge and a joy for Ameen to create. Co-producer Mohamed Hefzy praised Ameen’s growth as a filmmaker since her previous work, “Scales,” and commended her visionary storytelling approach in “Hijra.”
The production of “Hijra” was a collaborative effort involving influential production houses such as Biet Ameen Production, The Iraqi Independent Film Center, HumanFilm UK, and Ideation Studio led by Saudi producer Faisal Baltyuor. The film’s distribution in Saudi Arabia will be handled by Baltyuor’s Cinewaves, while Film Clinic Indie Distribution will manage sales across the Arab world. With the support of these partners and Ameen’s creative vision, “Hijra” is poised to make a significant impact on the international film scene.
As Shahad Ameen’s second directorial project following the success of “Scales,” “Hijra” is expected to further solidify her reputation as a talented and visionary filmmaker. The film’s exploration of Saudi cultural heritage and the evolving roles of women in society promises to resonate with audiences both locally and globally. With a strong cast, skilled international collaborators, and a richly woven narrative, “Hijra” is positioned to be a compelling addition to Ameen’s growing body of work.
The geographic and emotional journey portrayed in “Hijra,” spanning diverse locations and generations of Saudi women, offers a reflective and immersive experience for viewers. Ameen’s ability to capture the essence of Saudi culture and tradition through her storytelling is evident in the film’s production and cast selection. The film’s themes of heritage, female empowerment, and intergenerational connections are universal and relatable, making “Hijra” a film that has the potential to resonate with a wide audience.
With “Hijra,” Shahad Ameen continues to push boundaries and challenge societal norms through her cinematic storytelling. The film’s focus on the relationships between women across generations serves as a poignant reminder of the strength and resilience found within Saudi women. Through her collaboration with international talents and local production houses, Ameen has crafted a film that not only showcases the beauty of Saudi Arabia but also highlights the complexity and depth of its people. “Hijra” is more than just a film; it is a testament to the power of storytelling in bridging cultural divides and fostering understanding.
