Fakhr Alsuwaidi

Fakhr Alsuwaidi is a charming Saudi comedy that takes us inside a high school in the heart of Al-Suwaidi district, Riyadh. What truly stood out to me was the acting-especially the performance of the actor who played Mazen. The casting was well thought out, and each role felt tailor-made for the actors. The music was also fresh and creative, adding a nice layer to the overall atmosphere.

That said, the direction felt more like a collection of sketch scenes rather than a cohesive cinematic experience. The lack of nighttime scenes and the unrealistic portrayal of the school setting made it harder to feel fully immersed. It didn't quite resemble a real Saudi school, which could have added more authenticity.

The film is grounded in real, culturally rich moments that many Saudis can relate to. It shines most during the desert trip sequence, where the pace picks up and the characters reveal emotional depth. Unfortunately, the second quarter of the film drags and lacks engagement before that point.

Still, it's absolutely worth watching. It's a solid step in the evolution of Saudi cinema. I only hope future productions will embrace more innovative storytelling and avoid predictable endings.