Michael Caine shines at the start of Saudi Arabia's Red Sea Film Festival's Fifth Edition.

The fifth edition of Saudi Arabias Red Sea Film Festival commenced tonight with the premiere of Rowan Athales biographical film Giant, featuring Amir El-Masry in the role of boxing legend Prince Naseem Hamed. While Pierce Brosnan, portraying Hameds Irish trainer Brendan Ingle, did not attend the festival in Jeddah, numerous other stars graced the event with their presence.

Distinguished actors Michael Caine and Juliette Binoche, along with directors Rachid Bouchareb and Stanley Tong, received honorary awards on stage. The red carpet was also lit up by appearances from Kirsten Dunst, Queen Latifah, Jessica Alba, and Ana de Armas. Jury president Sean Baker was accompanied by members Riz Ahmed, Naomie Harris, Nadine Labaki, and Olga Kurylenko, while Prince Naseem Hamed himself attended the ceremony.

Making a memorable entrance in a wheelchair, Michael Caine was joined by his three grandchildren. Vin Diesel, a longtime friend, presented the legendary actor with his award and delivered an honorary speech. Caine delighted the audience with his charm, introducing himself humorously: Thank you for the welcome. My name is Michael Caine. Its not my real name but its the one that made all the money.

Reflecting on his life and career, Caine shared glimpses of his personal journey, noting his humble beginnings in London and the importance of his family. I have loads of photographs but none are of any of the movies I am in, its just family, because thats my life, he said. The actor, a two-time Oscar winner, expressed surprise and gratitude for being honored at a festival he had never visited before.

Beyond the celebrity highlights, the festival emphasized its growth and impact over five years. From a modest start in 2021 in a temporary theater, the Red Sea Film Festival has developed into a cultural hub with a new headquarters, supporting emerging filmmakers from multiple continents.

Over the past five years, the Red Sea Film Foundation has quietly but surely built what many once thought impossible, stated Jomana R. Alrashid, Chairwoman of the Foundation. Its more than just a foundation or festival; its an ecosystem where filmmakers are not only supported but empowered to lead.

Author: Noah Whitman