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Celebrities descend on Red Sea Film Fest-backed amfAR Gala Venezia

Celebrities descend on Red Sea Film Fest-backed amfAR Gala Venezia
Honoree Richard Gere and Alejandra Silva attend the amfAR Gala Venezia 2024 presented by Red Sea International Film Festival and World Gold Council at Hangar Nicelli on September 01, 2024 in Venice, Italy. (Getty Images)
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Updated 02 September 2024
Arab News
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Celebrities descend on Red Sea Film Fest-backed amfAR Gala Venezia

Celebrities descend on Red Sea Film Fest-backed amfAR Gala Venezia
Updated 02 September 2024
Arab News
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DUBAI: Celebrities from around the world attended the amfAR Gala Venezia 2024, which was supported by Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea International Film Festival, on Sunday night in Italy. 

US singer Kelly Rowland performed at the event in an all-white gown by Cheney Chan and Chopard jewels as she hit the stage in front of a star-studded audience. 




US singer Kelly Rowland at the amfAR Gala Venezia 2024. (Getty Images)

The event took place on the sidelines of the 81st Venice International Film Festival and played host to celebrity guests, including Hollywood actor Antonio Banderas, British actor Lucien Laviscount and US actor Richard Gere, among others. 

 

 

Shivani Pandya, managing director of the Red Sea Film Festival and Saudi producer and former CEO of the Red Sea Film Foundation Mohammed Al-Turki were also spotted on the red carpet ahead of the gala. 

Jomana Al-Rashid, chairwoman of the Red Sea Film Foundation, chaired the event. 

Al-Turki was honored with the amfAR Philanthropic Leadership Award during the gala, with amfAR taking to social media to describe his “extraordinary dedication to supporting HIV research and his unwavering commitment to advancing the fight against AIDS.”

 

 

Meanwhile, four Red Sea Fund-supported productions have been selected for screening at the storied film festival. 

The RSFF-backed films “Aïcha” and “Seeking Haven for Mr. Rambo” will screen in the Orizzonti and Orizzonti Extra selections respectively.

This is alongside two titles in the Venice Production Bridge’s Final Cut initiative supported by the Red Sea Fund: “Aisha Can’t Fly Away Anymore” and “In This Darkness I See You.”

Also screening in Venice’s Giornate degli Autori sidebar are two films supported by the Red Sea Fund: Hind Meddeb’s documentary “Sudan, Remember Us,” and from Northeast Asia “To Kill a Mongolian Horse” by Chinese director Xiaoxuan Jiang.

 “This year in Venice, the Foundation is supporting four films that demonstrate the importance and power of Arab, Asian and African cinema and encapsulate the pillars of the Foundation — creativity, diversity and cultural exchange,” Al-Rashid said in a released statement. 

“At this year’s festival we are also notably underscoring our expansion to Asia with our support of Chinese director Xiaoxuan Jiang, which marks our first project from the country,” she added.

Topics: amfAR gala venice film festival Red Sea Film Festival 

REVIEW: ‘Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster’ offers reanimated chaos in 4K

REVIEW: ‘Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster’ offers reanimated chaos in 4K
Updated 49 sec ago
James Denselow
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REVIEW: ‘Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster’ offers reanimated chaos in 4K

REVIEW: ‘Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster’ offers reanimated chaos in 4K
Updated 49 sec ago
James Denselow

LONDON; The “Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster” has arrived, breathing new life into Capcom’s iconic open-world zombie classic.

Almost 20 years after the original’s release, this version strikes a fine balance between a remake and a remaster, modernizing visuals, controls and gameplay while retaining its chaotic charm. With 4K resolution, smoother frame rates and gameplay improvements, “Dead Rising’s” latest iteration has, in a sense, grown up with its audience — although “grown up” might not be the best description for a game where a cactus can be a weapon.

The remaster brings you back to Willamette, Colorado, where you play as the cocky, wise-cracking photojournalist Frank West. His mission? Survive a 72-hour real-time, in-game clock ticking down inside a mall overrun by zombies, with missions to complete, bosses to fight, and absurd items to wield.

The day-night cycle brings shifting challenges and horror-movie ambiance that change the feel of each hour. You’ll often find yourself toggling between planning missions and impulsively grabbing whatever is in sight to fend off the undead. The remaster’s refined graphics and 60fps frame rate make both these approaches more fluid, whether you’re grappling with zombies or sneaking a killer snapshot.

And yes, Frank’s camera skills still matter. In addition to navigating an endless crowd of brain-hungry zombies, the game rewards you for snapping high-quality photos, encouraging you to capture the grotesque and hilarious. This adds an amusing layer of strategy and humor to the game, which doesn’t take itself too seriously. The absurd world of Dead Rising still allows you to dress Frank up in a range of ridiculous costumes, turning him from a somber zombie slayer into a comical hero fighting against the cathedral of consumerism — the mall itself.

As you progress, Frank’s skills evolve, allowing you to transform him into a near-indestructible wrestler, body-slamming zombies and crowd-surfing his way to safety. Missions often involve rescuing NPCs and escorting them to safety, and a roster of larger-than-life “Psychopath” bosses keeps the action intense. Beneath the mindless zombie slaying lies a satirical critique of American consumerism that resonates more with time; the remaster’s updated look adds to the commentary, making the mall’s neon lights and cluttered shelves all the more biting.

Of course, not all issues have been exorcised in this remaster. Some glitches linger, like the odd lift button bug that can render what should be a deadly encounter into an easy escape. Plus, it’s a shame that Capcom didn’t implement a co-op mode — a feature that could have elevated the chaotic fun to new heights.

Ultimately, “Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster” is as humorous as it is brutal, blending laughs with thrilling tension. The game continues to draw players into Frank West’s absurdly dangerous world, now rendered in beautifully gruesome detail. It’s a fantastic journey back to a familiar, zombie-filled playground — ideal for longtime fans and newcomers alike who are ready to face the horde.

Topics: Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster

Princess Rajwa visits art gallery in Amman with Queen Rania

Princess Rajwa visits art gallery in Amman with Queen Rania
Updated 25 November 2024
Arab News
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Princess Rajwa visits art gallery in Amman with Queen Rania

Princess Rajwa visits art gallery in Amman with Queen Rania
  • Visit marks another public engagement in Princess Rajwa’s calendar
  • Naqsh Collective was founded in 2009 by two sisters, Nisreen and Nermeen Abudail
Updated 25 November 2024
Arab News

DUBAI: Saudi-born Jordanian royal Princess Rajwa Al-Hussein visited Amman-based art gallery Naqsh Collective on her first joint engagement with her mother-in-law Queen Rania, on Sunday.

“Exquisite local designs, handcrafted with love. Had a lovely time with Rajwa at the Naqsh Collective workshop yesterday,” Queen Rania’s team posted on Instagram shortly after the visit.

The pair posted in front of an artwork titled “Wall Runner” at the gallery, which presents design works and artworks.

Naqsh Collective was founded in 2009 by two sisters, Nisreen and Nermeen Abudail. The gallery has participated in national and international events such as Milan Design Week, Amman Design Week, Design Days Dubai, and Saudi Design Week.

The visit marks another public engagement in Princess Rajwa’s calendar. Last week she attended a ceremony marking the inauguration of the first ordinary session of the 20th parliament in Amman, her second public appearance since the birth of her first child this summer. 

The royal showed off an elegant black ensemble for the occasion, complete with an oversized belt by Dior and pumps by Chloe. The look was finished off with the Goji mini bag in black by Jill Sander. 

Princess Rajwa was photographed alongside Queen Rania, who showed off a red look courtesy of Maison Valentino and Altuzarra. 

Princess Rajwa made her first public appearance since the birth of Princess Iman bint Al-Hussein bin Abdullah II at a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification match in October. 

The royal welcomed her first child, Princess Iman, with Crown Prince Hussein bin Abdullah on Aug. 3.

Jordan’s King Abdullah posted a tribute to his granddaughter on social media to mark the occasion. Translated from Arabic, the post read: “I thank God for giving us our first granddaughter Iman bint Hussein. I congratulate beloved Hussein and Rajwa for their newborn.”

Princess Rajwa, who celebrated her 30th birthday in April, is the daughter of Saudi businessman Khalid bin Musaed bin Saif bin Abdulaziz Al-Saif, who died in January this year, and his wife, Azza bint Nayef Abdulaziz Ahmad Al-Sudairi.

Topics: Jordan Princess Rajwa Queen Rania Naqsh Collective

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Ithra conference in Saudi Arabia shines spotlight on vibrant Islamic arts

Ithra conference in Saudi Arabia shines spotlight on vibrant Islamic arts
Updated 25 November 2024
Hind Al-Khunaizi
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Ithra conference in Saudi Arabia shines spotlight on vibrant Islamic arts

Ithra conference in Saudi Arabia shines spotlight on vibrant Islamic arts
  • Conference seeks to highlight how traditional crafts can inspire innovative solutions in areas such as design, business and urban development
  • Adding to the immersive experience, three specially curated films explore the artistry and history of Islamic crafts
Updated 25 November 2024
Hind Al-Khunaizi

DHAHRAN: The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, also known as Ithra, is hosting the second Islamic Art Conference from Nov. 25-30.

In partnership with the Abdullatif Al-Fozan Award for Mosque Architecture, the theme of this year’s event is “In Praise of the Artisan.” Featuring 50 participants from 14 countries, including 27 distinguished speakers, the conference will explore the connection between heritage and innovation in Islamic art.

From panel discussions to live demonstrations, and with a diverse lineup of artists, historians, curators and academics, the program offers attendees an opportunity to engage with the artistry and history of Islamic craftsmanship.

There are thought-provoking lectures, hands-on workshops and interactive demonstrations, all designed to immerse visitors in the beauty and intricacy of Islamic art forms. A central theme this year is the vital role played by artisans in preserving cultural heritage while adapting to contemporary challenges.

Through these discussions, the conference seeks to highlight how traditional crafts can inspire innovative solutions in areas such as design, business and urban development.

Running alongside the event is the “In Praise of the Artisan” exhibition. This display of historical artifacts and contemporary works highlight the timelessness of Islamic artistry through media ranging from ornate wood carvings and luminous textiles to intricately painted ceramics and dazzling metalwork. For those eager to learn skills for themselves, there are workshops on crafts such as embroidery, wood carving and sailboat crafting.

Adding to the immersive experience, three specially curated films explore the artistry and history of Islamic crafts, delving into the lives of artisans and the cultural significance of their work. Each screening is followed by a discussion with the filmmakers.

Beyond the main exhibition, Ithra’s plaza will host eight mini-exhibits in collaboration with institutions such as The Heritage Commission, The Royal Institute of Traditional Arts, and The General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques. These highlight regional crafts from across the Islamic world, such as Turkey and Egypt, emphasizing the event’s global nature.

Prominent voices such as Dr. Mashary Al-Naim, Dr. Mahmoud Erol Kilic and artist Ahmad Angawi will lead debates on the challenges and opportunities artisans face in preserving their crafts in an era dominated by mass production. Topics will include the integration of craftsmanship into modern business models and the role of artisans in sustainable urban development.

The conference also emphasizes the potential of traditional crafts to drive social change. By fostering collaboration between artisans, designers and cultural institutions, it creates pathways for them to thrive in contemporary markets while maintaining their historical integrity.

One highlight is the work of Dhai Ibrahim Al-Otaibi, a rising star in the art of Naqda embroidery. Known for her innovative approach, Al-Otaibi blends the opulence of traditional silver and gold threads with modern fashion aesthetics.

“Naqda embroidery signifies a critical aspect of Saudi cultural identity, especially in the Eastern and Central regions,” Al-Otaibi told Arab News.

“By reinterpreting these methods, I hope to make this craft more accessible to new generations while preserving its authenticity.”

Al-Otaibi began her journey as an apprentice under the guidance of artisan Sarah Al-Dosari and is one of only 14 of Naqda embroidery practitioners in Saudi Arabia. Her contributions to the exhibition not only show her personal artistry but also underscore the enduring relevance of this centuries-old craft.

“In Praise of the Artisan” will continue at Ithra until December 2027, providing plenty of opportunity to experience the splendor of Islamic arts and their evolving role in a modern world.

Topics: King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) Islamic Art Conference

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Guerlain perfumer talks Arab perfume traditions in Riyadh 

Guerlain perfumer talks Arab perfume traditions in Riyadh 
Updated 25 November 2024
Sulafa Alkhunaizi
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Guerlain perfumer talks Arab perfume traditions in Riyadh 

Guerlain perfumer talks Arab perfume traditions in Riyadh 
Updated 25 November 2024
Sulafa Alkhunaizi

RIYADH: Thierry Wasser, the in-house perfumer of French luxury beauty brand Guerlain, sat down with Arab News on a recent visit to Saudi Arabia to talk all things fragrance at the reopening of the flagship Guerlain boutique in Riyadh Park.

The perfumer shared his insights on the differences between typically Middle Eastern scents and their European counterparts and even touched on his previous visit to Taif in the Kingdom, which is famous for its distinct roses grown at high altitudes.

“When you go to each one of these countries, you try to discover what sent speaks for that country,” Wasser explained of his globe-trotting agenda. 

“For example, in Saudi Arabia, I think it's myrrh and I also think it's agarwood. In France, for some reason, I think it's lavender,” he added. 

The perfumer shared his experience of visiting Taif’s 1,800-meter-high Al-Sarawat Mountains, home to the Taif Rose variety, saying “It's a zig zag when you go … sometimes you have a place you don't expect the altitude to be so high.”

With more than 200 perfumes to his name, the perfumer revealed his favorite scent as Habit Rouge by Guerlain, an oriental woody perfume with notes of earth, warm leather, and the forest, launched in 1965 by the iconic Jean-Paul Guerlain.   

“It's like a shining armor. It was a disguise of a man, a manly, masculine disguise. It shaped me. My attitude changed … I kept it all my life like a lucky charm,” he said. 
Wasser's journey with the brand began in 2008, when was appointed as the first non-Guerlain family member to be the in-house perfumer of the storied house founded in 1828. 

“When you manufacture and source it, you get intimate with the formula and the fragrance from your predecessors and you are responsible for the integrity of them,” he said.

“I want to talk about the Middle East and about how perfume is expressed in the Middle East. They have a deep, intense love for very strong fragrances,” he noted, adding that he quickly learned fragrance is typically applied on clothing in the region, as opposed to directly on the skin, which is common practice in Europe. 

“So I changed my approach and I made all my trials on cotton handkerchiefs,” he explained. 

The fragrance house's iconic bee emblem reflects a commitment to sustainability. In 2021, Guerlain became one of the first luxury houses to join the Union for Ethical BioTrade and initiated a verification process for 50 natural ingredients.

“Sustainability is not exactly a marketing tool or communication tool, it is a state of mind,” Wasser said.

Topics: guerlain

Keke Palmer shows off vintage Azzedine Alaia look in New York

Keke Palmer shows off vintage Azzedine Alaia look in New York
Updated 25 November 2024
Arab News
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Keke Palmer shows off vintage Azzedine Alaia look in New York

Keke Palmer shows off vintage Azzedine Alaia look in New York
Updated 25 November 2024
Arab News

DUBAI: US actress and author Keke Palmer made an appearance on “The Drew Barrymore Show” in New York this week wearing a vintage look by late Tunisian couturier Azzedine Alaia.

Hailing from his Spring/ Summer 1986 ready-to-wear collection, the denim power suit featured a cross-body zipper, oversized sleeves and statement lapels.

Based in Paris, Alaia shot to international fame in the early 1980s and was quickly dubbed the “King of Cling.” Alaia won the Designer of the Year and Best Collection of the Year prizes at the Oscars de la Mode by the French Ministry of Culture in 1985.

Palmer showed off the look as she promoted her new book, “Master of Me.”

The “Nope” actress released the book in November and has been promoting the title at various media appearances, including on “The Drew Barrymore Show.”

In a conversation with Barrymore, the pair connected about the experience of being child stars, with Palmer stating “I’m not a victim, I’m a victor” after she praised her parents for supporting her career, which began with 2004’s “Barbershop 2: Back in Business.”

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by BIG BOSS (@keke)

“In her own raw and intimate words, Keke talks about everything from her struggles with boundaries to unconditional love, forgiveness, and worthiness,” the book’s description reads.

“Throughout the book, Keke also poses readers with the questions needed to get them through their own challenging times by sharing personal stories and lessons she’s learned along the way,” the blurb adds.

Palmer also sat down with US Iranian actress Yara Shahidi to discuss the book.

She took to Instagram shortly after the sit down, saying: “One of my favorite girls @yarashahidi discussed the themes of my book ‘Master of Me’ this past week. We had a great conversation in Boston around her old stomping grounds at Harvard! The excitement around the Many Masters Tour and the people I get to speak to is that we learn there are so many unique paths that lead to self-mastery and the exciting part is in creating your own path.”

 

 

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