Sean Baker, the Oscar-winning director of Anora, will chair this year’s Red Sea Film Festival’s feature jury.
The Saudi Arabia Festival is in its fifth edition from December 3rd to 14th, and the lineup includes Angelina Jolie’s Couture, The Kremlin Starring Jude Law and Paul Dano, and Rupert Wyatt’s Desert Warrior with Ben Kingsley and Anthony Mackie.
Baker said in a statement: “It is an honor to pick up the baton from director Spike Lee and serve as president of the jury for this year’s Red Sea International Film Festival.” “I have long admired the way the festival champions bold and diverse voices from around the world, and this year’s Feature Competition showcases some of the boldest and most exciting new voices from the Arab world, Africa and Asia. Festivals like this provide an important platform for independent films and connect them with audiences around the world. We are excited to be a part of their celebration of film and look forward to joining the great titles on the competition lineup.”
Baker’s “Anora” won five Oscars earlier this year, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, Best Editing and Best Actress for Mikey Madison. A champion of independent film, Baker is also known for his pioneering feature films Tangerine (2015) and The Florida Project (2017), both shot entirely on iPhone.
Faisal Baltuoğlu, CEO of the Red Sea Film Foundation, said: “Sean Baker is a pioneering director whose commitment to championing authentic and meaningful storytelling through film is truly inspiring. He continues to push the boundaries of cinema with his vision, and we deeply respect his commitment to independent filmmaking. We are extremely proud to have him as this year’s feature jury president, fresh off record-breaking success at the festival.” A very special fifth edition won the 2025 Academy Awards. ”
