The historic Al-Balad district in Jeddah was awash with star power this week as the Red Sea International Film Festival celebrated its fifth edition. The event, which runs under the 2025 theme 'For the Love of Cinema', saw global icons and regional talent converge on Cultural Square for a dazzling celebration of film.
Red Carpet Elegance and Star-Studded Guests
On the festival's second night, singer and actress Rita Ora commanded attention on the red carpet. The 35-year-old looked breathtaking in a light grey, semi-sheer fishtail gown featuring an off-the-shoulder neckline and delicate fluted lace sleeves. She completed the elegant look with a matching choker necklace and a sleek, pulled-back hairstyle.
Ora was attending the festival's 'Women In Cinema' event, rubbing shoulders with a host of famous guests. Hollywood stars Kirsten Dunst and Naomie Harris were also in attendance, with Harris stunning in a strapless two-tone gown. Other notable appearances included Dakota Johnson in black satin and Cara Buono in a plunging black dress adorned with gold sequins.
A Festival Spotlighting Arab Talent and Major Premieres
This year's festival continues its mission to put global cinema in the spotlight while making a bold, dedicated focus on Arab filmmakers and regional talent. The opening night on Thursday doubled as the world premiere of the highly anticipated biographical drama, 'Giant'.
The film tells the high-energy story of British boxing legend Prince Naseem Hamed. Directed by Rowan Athale, it stars Amir El-Masry as 'Naz' and Pierce Brosnan as his famed Irish trainer, Brendan Ingle. The project boasts executive producers including Sylvester Stallone and Braden Aftergood. Having first premiered at the 2025 BFI London Film Festival, 'Giant' is scheduled for UK cinematic release on 9 January 2026.
Honouring Cinematic Legends
A key highlight of the gala was the presentation of the Red Sea Honoree Award, recognising actors and influential figures whose work has left a lasting impact on cinema. The legendary Sir Michael Caine was introduced by close friend Vin Diesel and honoured for his extraordinary seven-decade career.
He was joined by other cinematic greats receiving the accolade, including three-time Oscar nominee Sigourney Weaver and French screen icon Juliette Binoche. Binoche, also set to headline the festival's first Women in Motion panel with Kering, was recognised for her remarkable work on and off screen. Further honourees were acclaimed French-Algerian director Rachid Bouchareb and Hong Kong action maestro Stanley Tong.
The festival's 2025 jury, featuring members like Nadine Labaki, Riz Ahmed, and jury head Sean Baker, were also prominent VIP guests throughout the proceedings, chaired by Jomana Al Rashid. The Red Sea International Film Festival continues to establish Jeddah as a major hub for cinematic culture and exchange.
