Saudi Cinema and the Filmography of Saudi Films in Theaters Until 2023

The act of filmmaking shaped by the tastes of its creator or festival circuit differs entirely when measured against the volatile temperament of the box office and its high stakes demands. Competing with seasoned production houses that understand the intricacies of audience appeal may seem futile—were it not for the boundless ambition of Saudi filmmakers, who in just a few years have achieved results worthy of reflection and documentation.

This book aims to chronicle that pivotal phase, using published materials on Saudi films as a means of documentation. It places great value on everything written or said about these films, encouraging platforms and writers to voice their opinions—positive or critical. All responses to creative work are valid and of interest to critical schools such as Reception Theory School, and may one day serve as fertile ground for academic research.

Cinema thrives on the criticism, studies, and scholarly engagement that accompany it, and its growth is mirrored in tangible cultural impact—seen today in box office turnout, social media commentary, visual archives, online platforms, newspapers, and magazines. The filmography section documents the early stages of sowing cinematic seeds, leading to the cultivation of a vibrant Saudi film landscape—one whose works not only fill local theaters but also reach screens across the globe, East and West.