Meshari Almutawa, a seasoned filmmaker with over 24 years of experience, discussed the potential of Kuwaiti cinema to reach global audiences. He emphasized the universal appeal of storytelling, stating, "Movies are the art of storytelling." He highlighted the unique aspects of Kuwaiti narratives that can resonate internationally, stating, "The more movies focus on the depths of society, the more they spread, and we as humans have similar stories."
Almutawa identified a key obstacle facing Kuwaiti filmmakers: "The biggest problem facing the film industry in Kuwait is ourselves." He elaborated on the prevailing mindset, stating, "People learned that they should study at the government's expense, then go back to a government job waiting for them, and their salary will be ready at the end of the month, and then they retire after 20-25 years. This mentality is what has delayed us." He urged aspiring filmmakers to break free from this complacency and pursue their passion.
With the rise of streaming platforms, Almutawa saw an opportunity for Kuwaiti filmmakers to reach a wider audience. He encouraged them to leverage these platforms to showcase their unique stories to the world.
Despite the challenges, Almutawa expressed optimism about the future of Kuwaiti cinema on the global stage, believing that with the right mindset and approach, Kuwaiti filmmakers could create films that not only resonate with local audiences but also captivate international viewers.
About Kilmitain
Kilmitain is a series of cultural, societal, and educational talks launched by Khaleejesque in April 2017. The talks feature a variety of creative professionals and industry experts and is an outlet to discuss thought-provoking ideas in an informal setting.
