The Saudi film “Hajjan” concludes the 14th edition of the Malmo Arab Film Festival
Malmö – April 3, 2024

The Malmö Arab Film Festival announced that the Saudi film “Hajjan” has been chosen as the closing film for the fourteenth edition, scheduled to take place between April 22nd and 28th.

“Hijan” is a Saudi-Egyptian-Jordanian co-production from 2023, written and directed by the Egyptian director Abu Bakr Shawky, starring child actor Omar Al-Atawi in his debut role, along with Azam Nemr, Toleen Barbood, Abdulmohsen Alnemr, Shaimaa Al Tayeb, Ibrahim Alhasawi, and Mohamed Hilal.

The film had its world premiere at the last edition of the Toronto International Film Festival and its nordic premiere at the closing of the Malmö festival. In addition to its impactful story, the film received significant attention after its premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival. It is produced by the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture “Ithra” and the Egyptian producer Mohamed Hefzy, with Ithra playing a key role in the development of Saudi cinema.

“Hijan” tells a poignant adventure story that explores the deep bond that can develop between humans and animals. Matar is the youngest child in a Saudi family of camel racers. When his brother falls during a race and is killed, Matar is supposed to move to the city with his family to sell their camel, Hofira, for meat. Instead, he becomes a racer himself, working for a ruthless camel race owner, until he and his camel Hofira are forced to flee together on a dangerous journey across the desert in search of freedom and a better life.

Head of Performing Arts and Cinema at Ithra Majed Z. Samman said, “We are pleased that (Hajjan) was chosen to be the closing film of the 14th Malmö Arab Film Festival, which is a festival of great interest to Arab filmmakers.” He added, “Our mission at Ithra is to support the emergence of the Kingdom’s fast-growing film industry by nurturing local talent and promoting the creation of original cinematic content that shines the light on Saudi culture. Hajjan is a wonderful example as it illuminates the Kingdom’s deep cultural heritage linked to camels and the desert”.

Abu Bakr Shawky I am very happy to be part of a wonderful festival such as Malmö with my second feature Hajjan, especially since it’s my second participation after my first feature Yomeddine. I would like to thank the festival for their kind invitation and look forward to visiting once again the beautiful city of Malmö, and I hope the audience will enjoy the film.

Management and Artistic Consultant, Mouhamad Kablawi, choosing a Saudi film to be the closing film of the Malmo Arab Film Festival should reflect the evolution and diversity of Saudi cinema in particular, while shedding light on new aspects unknown to many audiences. It should also promote cultural exchange and understanding between peoples and cultures.
“Hajjan” stands out with its touching and inspiring story, which explores a unique relationship between humans and the Camels on one hand, and their relationship with the desert on the other, showcasing a journey filled with adventures and challenges. The film combines quality direction, excellent performances by the actors, a solid script, and outstanding production values, making it a work of art worthy of respect and appreciation.