Saudi Arabia submitted the country's first-ever feature film, Wadjda, to the Oscar committee for consideration. The film was written and directed by a woman -- another first for the country.
Saudi Arabia's Oscar aspirations —
Saudi Arabia submitted the country's first-ever feature film, Wadjda, to the Oscar committee for consideration. The film was written and directed by a woman -- another first for the country.
Sony Classics
The movie follows the life of an 11-year-old girl who dreams of owning a green bicycle. It is a parable for female independence in a country renowned for setting limits on women's ambitions.
Saudi Arabia's Oscar aspirations —
The movie follows the life of an 11-year-old girl who dreams of owning a green bicycle. It is a parable for female independence in a country renowned for setting limits on women's ambitions.
Sony Classics
Director Haifaa Al Mansour says that when filming outdoor scenes, she has to direct from inside a van and communicate with actors via a walkie-talkie.
Saudi Arabia's Oscar aspirations —
Director Haifaa Al Mansour says that when filming outdoor scenes, she has to direct from inside a van and communicate with actors via a walkie-talkie.
Tobias Kownatzki / Razor Film
Al Mansour (pictured) admits she had received death threats for her work.
Saudi Arabia's Oscar aspirations —
Al Mansour (pictured) admits she had received death threats for her work.
Tobias Kownatzki / Razor Film