DUBAI, Nov 18, (Agencies): The opening film for the third edition of the Red Sea International Film Festival in Jeddah has been revealed as "Hwjn," directed by Yasir Al-Yasiri. Running from November 30 to December 9, the festival will feature the adaptation of Ibraheem Abbas's bestselling YA fantasy novel, which delves into the tale of a curious Jinn who falls in love with a human woman.

The film combines Arabian folklore with the enigmatic realm of Jinn to explore the reality behind Jinn's royal lineage. Starring Baraa Alem, Nour Alkhadra, Naif Aldaferi, Alanoud Saud, Mohsen Mansour, and Shaimaa Al-Tayeb, the festival aims to highlight the growth of the Saudi cinema industry. Mohammed Al-Turki, CEO of the Red Sea Film Foundation, expressed excitement about opening the festival with a Saudi film, emphasizing the transformative moment for the cinema industry in the region.

The festival's theme for this year is "Your Story, Your Festival," focusing on celebrating film, connecting cultures, and expanding horizons by welcoming stories from diverse backgrounds. The organizers aim to provide a comprehensive cinematic platform that goes beyond traditional film screening events, promoting diversity, connection, and cultural exchange.