Fionnuala Halligan Cultivates Saudi Film Culture through Thoughtful and Unconventional Programming

After more than 30 years of dedicated work as a film critic, including her tenure as chief critic at the U.K.s Screen International, Fionnuala Halligan has transitioned into the world of film festivals. Earlier this year, she assumed the role of Director of International Programs at the Red Sea International Film Festival (RSIFF).

Halligan began her career at The South China Morning Post in Hong Kong, later moving to London to focus on long-form criticism, industry reporting, and authorship. During her more than two decades at Screen International, she also spent five years as an international programmer at the now-defunct Macao International Film Festival. In May, she joined RSIFF, succeeding Kaleem Aftab and collaborating with director of Arab programs Antoine Khalife to shape the festivals growing global focus, highlighting films from Asia, Africa, and the Arab world. Under her guidance, RSIFF has also made strides in gender balance, with 37% of selected films in 2025 directed by women.

In an interview ahead of the Dec. 413 festival, Halligan discussed her shift from criticism to curation, programming in Saudi Arabia, balancing ambition with cultural sensitivity, and her top film choice of the year.

Why Take the Leap from Criticism to Festival Programming?

"I had done my work at Screen for a long time. The opportunity at Red Sea felt extraordinary," Halligan said. She admired the festivals approach, which differed from typical European or Western models, emphasizing diversity and representation. "With Red Seas focus on Asia, Africa, and the Arab world, it felt like a chance to actively engage in the conversation Id always advocated for," she explained.

Defining Her Role

Halligan co-directs programming with Antoine Khalife. While Khalife manages Arabic-language films and archival content, Halligan oversees international selections. They collaborate closely, sharing goals and taste. The festivals main competition focuses on Asia, Africa, and Arabic-speaking countries, while other sections are split evenly. Halligan ensures a mix of regional voices, balancing red-carpet events with audience-centered programming.

Maintaining Artistic Integrity Amid Star Power

RSIFF is known for attracting high-profile talent, but Halligan emphasized that celebrity appearances are separate from programming decisions. "Programming comes first; celebrity comes after," she said. Her priorities are representation, diversity, and serving audiences, particularly Saudi Arabias young population, which offers an opportunity to introduce arthouse cinema.

Navigating Saudi Cinema and Cultural Sensitivities

Since cinemas reopened in 2018, Saudi audiences have rapidly embraced film, though arthouse venues remain limited. "Cinema is a conversation between filmmaker and audience, and we are facilitators," Halligan said. She ensures all films are rated and reviewed, introducing bold, challenging works like The Wizard of the Kremlin, The Secret Agent, and Sirat, while respecting cultural contexts.

Addressing concerns about Western artists participating in Saudi events, Halligan noted that RSIFF operates within a unique ecosystem, supporting long-term regional filmmaking. Her main challenge has been securing MENA premieres, rather than overcoming political hesitation.

Programming Highlights and Achievements

Halligan is particularly proud of the festivals inclusivity and discoveries. "Every title this year opens a conversation," she said. Thirty-seven percent of directors are women, and the office itself is led by women in key roles. She highlighted the world premiere of Somalias Barni, the ambitious Japanese Kohoku, and Indias Umrao Jaan. On the Arab side, strong selections include All Thats Left of You and The Voice of Hind Rajab.

The Festival Experience

Attending Red Sea is more immersive than expected. Held in Jeddahs historic Al Balad district, the festival combines ancient architecture, a vibrant Souk, and a striking red-carpet experience featuring international and regional celebrities.

Favorite Film of 2025

Halligans standout pick is liver Laxes Sirt. "It took me by the throat," she said. "Its a powerful cinematic experience, and Im eager to share it with audiences here."

Memorable Festival Moment

Reflecting on her career, Halligan recalls the first Cannes press screening of Pulp Fiction. "It showed me the electric energy a film can create before anyone even knows what it is," she said, highlighting her enduring love for cinema and festival culture.

Author: Maya Henderson