Washington [US], December 3: The 2024 Red Sea Film Festival, scheduled to run from December 5 to 14 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, will celebrate global cinematic talent by honoring Bollywood icon Aamir Khan and Oscar-nominated actress Emily Blunt. The two stars will be recognized during the festival’s opening night, alongside Egyptian screen legend Mona Zaki, who was previously announced as one of the awardees, as reported by Deadline.
Both Khan and Blunt will also participate in the festival’s popular ‘In Conversation With’ segment, offering an exclusive opportunity for attendees to delve into their careers and creative processes. Other notable speakers already confirmed for this segment include Hollywood stars Eva Longoria, Andrew Garfield, and Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor.
Aamir Khan, one of India’s most influential actors and filmmakers, is renowned for his successful career and impactful films. His global hits include Dangal (2016), Ghajini, 3 Idiots, Dhoom 3, PK, and the Oscar-nominated Lagaan (2002). Expressing his gratitude for the recognition, Khan said, “Cinema has been my lifelong passion, and to be amidst such an inspiring group of artists from across the world is truly humbling.”
Emily Blunt, famous for her roles in A Quiet Place and Sicario, has earned acclaim in Hollywood with her impressive performances. She received an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer (2023). Blunt’s upcoming projects include The Smashing Machine, starring alongside Dwayne Johnson, and a major event film directed by Steven Spielberg. Reflecting on the honor, she stated, “I love all that this festival is doing for innovative and emerging talent in the film industry. In particular, I’m excited by how they are empowering women in cinema and amplifying their voices.”
The Red Sea Film Festival, held in the port city of Jeddah, is now in its fourth edition and has become one of the most prominent cultural events in the Middle East.