Saudi Arabian filmmaker and actress Fatima Al-Banawi has established herself as a versatile artist who explores complex themes like identity and societal dynamics through her work. With a background in filmmaking, her work includes impactful films, television shows, and literature. Recognized globally for her debut film Barakah Meets Barakah, Al-Banawi assumes the role of the writer, director, and lead character in her upcoming movie, Basma.
In a milestone moment, Al-Banawi is set to make her directorial debut with a compelling film on mental health, slated for release on Netflix. Set in Saudi Arabia, the film is a moving exploration of the complexities surrounding mental well-being, further solidifying Al Banawi’s position as a storyteller who fearlessly tackles thought-provoking and often challenging subjects.
Al-Banawi’s latest cinematic project follows the life of Basma, who faces difficult truths on returning to her hometown of Jeddah after studying in America. As she tackles the reality of her father’s mental illness and broken family relationships, Basma strives to bring back the cheerful home life she was once familiar with.Â
Al-Banawi, passionate about strengthening the conversation surrounding social impact and arts, said in a press statement, “There are seven billion versions of normal on this planet; I hope I managed to deliver one of them. After we finished filming Basma, I wondered whether there would be anything better than dreams coming true, and I realized the only thing better than that is to be able to dream”.
While the exact release date is yet to be disclosed, Basma will hit our screen sometime in 2024.
