On this episode of the Riyada podcast, co-hosts Merissa Khurma and Imad Shawa zoom into the production side of MENA’s film industry. Ali Jaafar, head of the film division at MBC Studios, produced numerous films, including The Swimmers (2022), King of Thieves (2018), and The Idol (2015). Ali discussed his transition from journalism to production and desire to elevate diverse narratives from the Arab world to regional and global audiences.
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This podcast was funded by a grant from the United States Department of State. The opinions, findings and conclusions stated herein are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect those of the United States Department of State.
The Wilson Center’s Middle East Program serves as a crucial resource for the policymaking community and beyond, providing analyses and research that helps inform US foreign policymaking, stimulates public debate, and expands knowledge about issues in the wider Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Read more
The Middle East and North Africa Workforce Development Initiative (MENA-WDI) aims to assess both current and projected challenges facing the region in developing the workforce and the implications for peace and stability. Read more
