Director Elie El-Semaan discusses his first feature film, ‘Honeymoonish’ 

Director Elie El-Semaan discusses his first feature film, ‘Honeymoonish’ 
“Honeymoonish” is a romantic comedy that will come to Netflix later this year.  (Supplied)
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Updated 14 March 2024
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Director Elie El-Semaan discusses his first feature film, ‘Honeymoonish’ 

Director Elie El-Semaan discusses his first feature film, ‘Honeymoonish’ 
  • Murex D’or winning director tells Arab News that his rom-com for Netflix is a labor of love 

DUBAI: Elie El-Semaan says being a director is physically exhausting, but that’s what fuels his love for filmmaking. The Lebanese director gained international acclaim with his breakout work, the TV show “Shatti Ya Beirut” (Rain Over Beirut), which won him a Murex D’or (the annual Lebanese awards for achievements in the arts) for Best Drama Director in 2022. 

Now, El-Semaan is ready to bring his expertise to the silver screen with his feature-film debut, “Honeymoonish”, a romantic comedy that will come to Netflix later this year.  




El-Semaan is ready to bring his expertise to the silver screen. (Supplied)

The project, as the first Kuwaiti film to be shot in Lebanon, comes with a nuanced take on the Arab world and the cultures that make it unique. 

“I think the film will change the perception of Arabs,” El-Semaan says to Arab News.  “Once people watch it, they’ll understand what I mean.” 

The film, written by Egyptian author and director Eiad Saleh, stars Kuwaiti-born Egyptian actress Nour Al-Ghandour as Noor and Kuwaiti actor Mahmoud Boushahri as Hamad. In it, the couple navigate a web of misunderstandings and unexpected truths to discover love and the possibility of redemption, inviting viewers on an emotionally resonant journey. 




The project, as the first Kuwaiti film to be shot in Lebanon, comes with a nuanced take on the Arab world and the cultures that make it unique. (Supplied)

Though the pressure of making his debut feature for a powerhouse like Netflix may have been daunting, El-Semaan says that the raising of the bar for pan-Arab television in recent years had given him confidence. 

 “I think series are now being treated as films,” he says. “The quality of our series is up to the level where each episode is like a film. In terms of quality, in terms of responsibility, in terms of everything, it was quite similar. You cannot give (audiences) what they used to watch in the past because the world has so much to offer. 

“The main difference between series and film is the amount of time you have — in a series you have, let’s say, three days to shoot an episode,” El-Semaan continues. “Whereas for a 90-minute film, you have 30 to 40 days to shoot.”  




Elie El-Semaan on the set of 'Honeymoonish.' (Supplied) 

With this added time came the opportunity to refine and understand the cultural subtleties of cast and crew. 

“One of the most difficult things for me as the director was the different dialects — Lebanese and Kuwaiti Arabic. That’s why I had a Kuwaiti on set with me who could explain different things. It was very diverse,” El-Semaan says.   

Bringing pan-Arab stories to the world stage is something El-Semaan often thinks about. It is important to the director to break down misconceptions and authentically represent his people.  




The film is written by Egyptian author and director Eiad Saleh. (Supplied)

“It’s a fine line, not shifting to a story that doesn’t look like our society and that doesn’t look like us,” he says. “You have to maintain the authenticity of the project, but, at the same time, take things up a notch and build on the story to do something that people haven’t seen before.” 

To do that, El-Semaan says he tried to foster an on-set environment that offered his actors and crew the freedom to collaborate in the filmmaking process. While he acknowledges his role as the final decision-maker, El-Semaan’s approach hinges on mutual involvement, with actors and crew members encouraged to contribute their insights and creativity. He shuns the notion of a director versus crew dynamic, instead fostering an environment where every individual is a valued partner in the project.  




The film stars Kuwaiti-born Egyptian actress Nour Al-Ghandour as Noor and Kuwaiti actor Mahmoud Boushahri as Hamad. (Supplied)

“I do not work with people who are not partners, I want people involved,” he says. “I want them to help build my vision, change my vision, and surprise me at times.” It is then his job to know how best to handle those surprises. 

“There are always things you need to know how to deal with on the spot. That’s what we do for a living: make decisions,” El-Semaan says. 

His championing of the idea of collective dreaming and dialogue, he believes, gives him a greater chance of creating the best possible film from the material. In his words, “That’s how you come up with a better project.” 

As he eagerly awaits the film’s launch, El-Semaan reflects on the transformative power of cinema and the joy of bringing diverse voices together to create something truly special. To him, it’s not just about entertaining audiences, but also about sparking conversations, challenging stereotypes, and fostering a deeper understanding of the human experience.  

“I’m sure there’s always room for improvement,” he says. “There’s always more we can do.” 


Miss Universe 2024 walks for Michael Cinco at Dubai Fashion Week

Miss Universe 2024 walks for Michael Cinco at Dubai Fashion Week
Updated 05 February 2025
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Miss Universe 2024 walks for Michael Cinco at Dubai Fashion Week

Miss Universe 2024 walks for Michael Cinco at Dubai Fashion Week

DUBAI: Miss Universe 2024 Victoria Kjær Theilvig took to the runway for Dubai-based Filipino designer Michael Cinco on day four of Dubai Fashion Week (DFW). 

Theilvig closed the show wearing a red gown – with a strapless, sweetheart neckline – that featured intricate sequin embellishments. 

Cinco’s collection showcased detailed craftsmanship and dramatic silhouettes. (Supplied)

The dress included a dramatic, structured peplum detail at the waist over a fitted silhouette. The look was completed with a floor-length, flowing train. 

Cinco’s collection showcased detailed craftsmanship and dramatic silhouettes, reinforcing his signature aesthetic that has been touted by celebrities including Mariah Carey, Sofia Vergara and Aishwarya Rai, among others.

Tuesday showcased a diverse lineup of brands, including Viva Vox, Lama Jouni, CHOICE, and Riva, which all brought bold styles, modern femininity and refined elegance to the runway.

Russian brand Viva Vox’s creative director Oleg Ovsiyov unveiled an Autumn/Winter 2025-26 collection. (Supplied)

Russian brand Viva Vox’s creative director Oleg Ovsiyov unveiled an Autumn/Winter 2025-26 collection characterized by striking silhouettes, vibrant colors, and experimental fabric choices, reflecting the brand’s avant-garde identity.

Lebanese designer Jouni blended luxury and streetwear in a collection featuring muted tones, waist-enhancing separates, and structured dresses. The designs emphasized versatility and practicality, offering a balance of comfort and sophistication.

Dubai-based brand CHOICE channelled the 1970s for its Spring/Summer 2025 line, incorporating linen, cotton, tweeds, chiffons and silks. The collection featured feminine silhouettes with dramatic draping, bold accessories and a palette of caramel, bronze and desert sand-like hues. Metallic fringes, sequins and textured details added depth, while structured trench coats and waist-cinching designs completed the lineup.

Riva presented a collection of flowing kaftans, flattering silhouettes, and intricate embroidery. Lightweight fabrics like linen and cotton, paired with a soft color palette, offered versatile designs suited for formal and relaxed settings.

Theilvig won the Miss Universe crown in November. The dancer, entrepreneur and animal rights activist beat out more than 120 contestants in the pageant’s 73rd edition held in Mexico City. 

“I have been waiting for my whole life for this moment,” she said during the swimsuit round of the pageant.

“No matter where you come from, no matter your past, you can always choose to turn it into your strengths,” she also said on the Miss Universe stage at the time. 


French artist Patrick Tresset brings robotic art to ‘Ai or Nay?’ exhibition in Qatar

French artist Patrick Tresset brings robotic art to ‘Ai or Nay?’ exhibition in Qatar
Updated 05 February 2025
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French artist Patrick Tresset brings robotic art to ‘Ai or Nay?’ exhibition in Qatar

French artist Patrick Tresset brings robotic art to ‘Ai or Nay?’ exhibition in Qatar

DOHA: Brussels-based French artist Patrick Tresset, known for integrating robotics into his art, is presenting a thought-provoking installation called “Time to Read,” at the exhibition “Ai or Nay? Artificial vs. Intelligent” in Qatar.

The exhibition, taking place at the Media Majlis Museum at Northwestern University until May 15, examines the relationship between artificial intelligence and human creativity through the works of more than 20 regional and international artists.

“Time to Read” invites visitors to sit and read a book for 30 minutes while two robotic arms draw their likenesses. The resulting portraits become part of a global collection which now includes over 50,000 drawings created by similar installations worldwide. 

“The idea came from a lunch I had with a gallery director in Paris,” Tresset told Arab News. “We were talking about reading, social media and how we don’t have the attention anymore. After the lunch, I thought, ‘I should do a piece about that’.”

Tresset’s career took a significant turn when he transitioned from traditional painting to robotics after experiencing a creative block.

“I used to be a painter, but at some point I lost my way. Everything I did didn’t feel right anymore,” he explained. “Because I had a computer when I was very young, I had the intuition I could do something with computational systems, so I switched to that.”

His work with robotics led to installations like “Time to Read” that incorporate elements of performance and audience interaction.

“I realized the theatrical potential, and that is why I started to exhibit those types of installations where the robots are actors. It is a performance. It is an art installation. It is a drawing,” he said. 

Discussing the implications of technology in the creative field, Tresset said: “A pen is a technology, and so is a hammer — you can use them constructively or destructively.”

With “Time to Read,” he added, he wanted to show how technology can help us reflect, reconnect, and slow down.


Diriyah Storytelling Festival breathes new life into Saudi Arabia’s literary heritage

Diriyah Storytelling Festival breathes new life into Saudi Arabia’s literary heritage
Updated 05 February 2025
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Diriyah Storytelling Festival breathes new life into Saudi Arabia’s literary heritage

Diriyah Storytelling Festival breathes new life into Saudi Arabia’s literary heritage
  • Event offers deep dive into Kingdom’s rich tradition
  • Locals, visitors explore Saudi literature

RIYADH: The Diriyah Storytelling Festival brings together literary enthusiasts, publishers, and celebrated authors and provides a deep dive into Saudi Arabia’s rich storytelling traditions and evolving literary landscape.

The event, which lasts until Feb. 8, features panel discussions, book signings, live performances, and interactive experiences.

The festival is attracting a diverse audience, including international visitors who engage with Saudi authors to explore locally published books.

One of the standout sessions, “The Roots of the Tale,” featured renowned Saudi novelist and journalist Badryah Al-Bishr, who spoke about the transformation of storytelling into modern literature.

Al-Bishr said: “My participation was all about tracing the wisdom of storytelling to the structure of novels. Since I studied folk tales in my master’s degree while also writing novels, I explored how traditional narratives evolved before written literature.

“Societies have always needed this literary and cultural influence — it serves deep and indirect functions, whether in raising children, comforting sorrowful hearts, or inspiring values and ideals.

“This is what we now call ‘soft power.’ Storytelling has always shaped minds, transferring across cultures like the tale of ‘Cinderella,’ which exists in Russia, Europe, and even Najd.”

A key aspect of the festival is its focus on showcasing Saudi literature to international visitors, offering translations and accessible editions of local works.

Modi Al-Dossari, from the Tashkeel Publishing House, noted the growing interest from foreign attendees, and added: “We’re working on something big here at the festival.

“The visitors are quite diverse, including many foreigners eager to learn about our culture.

“At Tashkeel we have Saudi books and stories translated into English, and they are among our bestsellers. It’s amazing to see our culture being shared in such a smooth and accessible way.”

The availability of translated Saudi literature has helped bridge the gap between local storytelling and a global readership, highlighting the richness of Saudi narratives and their universal appeal.

Beyond book discussions, the Diriyah Storytelling Festival provides visitors with a fully immersive cultural experience, allowing them to explore the historic and artistic depth of Diriyah.

Entry to the festival costs SR40 ($10.66) per person, which includes access to all three locations — Bujairi Terrace, Bab Samhan Hotel, and Al-Zuhayra — as well as shuttle transportation between the venues and parking areas.

The festival also features restaurants, cafes, and boutique shops, making it an ideal destination for both literary and cultural exploration.

Hind Mohammed, who was attending, said: “I loved visiting Diriyah, especially Bujairi Terrace. It’s such a beautiful and enriching experience, with a vibrant atmosphere, and fantastic cafes, restaurants, and children’s play areas.”

Visitors can witness the breathtaking sunset over Diriyah’s landscape — and see a combination of golden light, traditional architecture and peaceful surroundings creating a spectacular and serene experience.

Saudi Arabia’s literary scene has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years, with increasing global recognition for local authors and their works. Events like the Diriyah Storytelling Festival contribute to this transformation by providing a platform for dialogue, creativity, and cultural exchange.


Designers offer up day-to-evening wear at Dubai Fashion Week

Designers offer up day-to-evening wear at Dubai Fashion Week
Updated 04 February 2025
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Designers offer up day-to-evening wear at Dubai Fashion Week

Designers offer up day-to-evening wear at Dubai Fashion Week

DUBAI: Day three of Dubai Fashion Week saw presentations by fashion label BLSSD, New York-based British Iraqi designer Tara Babylon, Dubai-based Lebanese designer Dima Ayad and a multi-designer showcase curated by department store Etoile La Boutique.

Rawdah Mohamed walked the runway for Dima Ayad. (Supplied)

Somali Norwegian model Rawdah Mohamed walked the runway for Ayad, who stayed true to her brand’s founding ethos and offered up chic looks for a diverse range of body shapes. Houndstooth patterns were employed in various hues across the collection, while winter-appropriate fabrics and evening wear options in rippled gold also made an appearance.

Babylon took over the runway with her Autumn/Winter 2025 collection titled “Princess of Thieves.” The designer brought a warm and tropical vibe to the winter collection with Middle Eastern-inspired palm tree prints and earthy green tones. Weaving, printing and crochet techniques were used along with recycled cotton tapestry to create stylish winter pieces.

(Supplied)

The Central Saint Martins and Parsons-educated designer is known for the performance-like aspect of her shows, and Monday night’s showcase in Dubai was no different. Models strode down the runway in a series of artfully created balaclavas that matched the ensembles.

(Supplied)

Meanwhile, Etoile La Boutique’s invite-only showcase was a curated multi-designer collection titled “Twilight to Midnight.” The playful showcase offered up a sunshine yellow taffeta dress alongside a sequined mini-skirt and expertly cut leopard-print trench coat.

UAE-born and bred streetwear and ready-to-wear label BLSSD showcased its signature experimental styles in seasonal colours — a floor-grazing blazer paired with slouchy, masculine trousers was a particular draw at the show.


Ithra’s Kimono Exhibition showcases art, evolution of a Japanese symbol in Saudi Arabia

Ithra’s Kimono Exhibition showcases art, evolution of a Japanese symbol in Saudi Arabia
Updated 04 February 2025
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Ithra’s Kimono Exhibition showcases art, evolution of a Japanese symbol in Saudi Arabia

Ithra’s Kimono Exhibition showcases art, evolution of a Japanese symbol in Saudi Arabia

DHAHRAN: As part of the Japan Cultural Days event that ends on Feb. 8, the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) is hosting a Kimono Exhibition, offering visitors an up-close look at these traditional Japanese garments synonymous with the country.

Maha Abdulhadi, creative programs specialist at Ithra, explained the significance of the exhibition to Arab News.

The patterns and fabrics of kimonos often reflect seasonal changes, festivals and artistic aesthetics, further emphasizing their connection to Japanese culture. (Supplied)

“The Kimono Exhibition at Japan Cultural Days is not just a fashion showcase — it (is) a deep cultural experience. It celebrates Japan’s artistic legacy, demonstrates the adaptability of tradition in a modern world, and strengthens cultural exchange between Japan and global audiences,” Abdulhadi said.

As one of the most iconic symbols of Japanese tradition and craftsmanship, the kimono has served as a representation of Japan’s rich cultural identity and its textile artistry, showcasing centuries-old techniques of dyeing, weaving and embroidery, while also demonstrating how contemporary designers have reinterpreted the kimono for modern sentiments.

The exhibition also highlights the significance of kimonos in different celebratory occasions, showcasing how their styles vary depending on the event.

The selection of kimonos was curated by Ithra’s Museum & Exhibition unit. (Supplied)

The patterns and fabrics of kimonos often reflect seasonal changes, festivals and artistic aesthetics, further emphasizing their connection to Japanese culture.

This free exhibition showcases 17 kimonos in total, carefully selected to highlight the evolution of this iconic Japanese attire.

Ten kimonos were loaned from the Japan Kimono Museum in Fukushima. These pieces represent antique kimonos from different historical periods, reflecting the craftsmanship and aesthetic sensibilities of the Meiji (1868-1912), Taisho (1912-1926), and Showa (1926-1989) eras. The Japan Kimono Museum, which opened in 2022, houses the largest collection of kimonos in Japan, with approximately 10,000 items in total, including accessories.

As part of the Japan Cultural Days event that ends on Feb. 8, the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) is hosting a Kimono Exhibition. (Supplied)

 “I would like to add that the design of one of the uchikake kimono displayed from the Japan Kimono Museum is by Kansai Yamamoto, a fashion designer who was active in Paris Fashion Week and other events,” Abdulhadi added.

In addition to the historical pieces, seven kimonos in the exhibition came from a private collector based in Japan, showcasing modern interpretations of the traditional garment.

The selection of kimonos was curated by Ithra’s Museum & Exhibition unit. The curatorial team focused on presenting the evolution of kimonos, emphasizing their intricate dyeing techniques, exquisite craftsmanship and regional styles that tell captivating stories of tradition and heritage.

Beyond being a fashion exhibition, the event as a whole, which began on Jan. 23, was created to foster cultural exchange as the two countries celebrate 70 years of Saudi-Japan diplomatic relations.