“Black Panther” graces Saudi cinema to end decades-long ban

RIYADH: Disney’s blockbuster “Black Panther” is being screened in Saudi cinema today (Wednesday), officially ending a decades-long ban on movie theaters in the Kingdom, the decision is a part of a wider change across society.

Saudis see the decision to lift 35-year ban on cinemas as a huge step toward economic and social reforms in the country, adapting to a 21st century where oil wealth will not be enough to fund government spending and create jobs in the Kingdom of  more than 33 million population.

Selecting Black Panther as the first movie to be screened in Saudi Arabia after the ban, signalling the dawn of a new age in filmmaking. this historical moment is one of several developments that will throw open the doors to the winds of change sweeping in.

Initially the audience will head into AMC’s first cinema, located in Riyadh’s King Abdullah Financial District. The building itself was intended to be symphony concert hall, having the capacity of 500 people. It is learnt that within months three more screens to be added.

As per earlier decision between the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia (PIF) and the American theatrical exhibitor AMC,  30 more cinemas to be opened in 15 different cities in the Kingdom over the next five years.