Saudi Drama "Hijra" Heads to Oscars, Unveiling a Nation's Hidden Strictures

The Red Sea Film Festival has announced that Shahad Ameen's 'Hijra' will represent Saudi Arabia in the Oscars' international feature film category. The drama, which premiered at the festival, tells the story of a devout grandmother's journey to Mecca with her two young granddaughters, one of whom goes missing during the pilgrimage. According to Ameen, the film's director, the sudden disappearance of the young woman, Sitti, serves as a catalyst for the grandmother and her remaining granddaughter, Janna, to re-evaluate their faith and their relationship with each other. "The disappearance of Sitti forces Janna to confront the strictures of her society and the expectations placed upon her," Ameen explained in an interview. "Through their journey, we see the complexities of their relationships and the ways in which faith and family can be both a source of comfort and a source of conflict." 'Hijra' is Ameen's sophomore feature, following her debut film, 'The Perfect Candidate,' which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2019. The film has been praised for its nuanced portrayal of Saudi Arabian culture and its thought-provoking exploration of themes such as faith, family, and identity. The film's selection for the Oscars' international feature category is a significant milestone for Saudi Arabian cinema, which has been gaining recognition in recent years. "This is a major achievement for Saudi Arabian filmmakers and a testament to the country's growing film industry," said a spokesperson for the Red Sea Film Festival. 'Hijra' is set to compete against other international films in the Oscars' international feature category, with the winner to be announced in February 2026. The film's selection has generated significant buzz in the film industry, with many critics praising its thought-provoking themes and nuanced portrayal of Saudi Arabian culture. As the film industry continues to evolve, 'Hijra' serves as a powerful example of the impact that international films can have on global audiences. With its thought-provoking themes and nuanced portrayal of Saudi Arabian culture, 'Hijra' is sure to be a major contender in the Oscars' international feature category.