Golden Globes Organization Looks to Include Saudi Judges in the Future
By Anas Alyusuf
Riyadh — Helen Hoehne, president of the Golden Globes organization, unveiled an ambitious plan to incorporate judges from Saudi Arabia in the upcoming editions of the prestigious awards ceremony.
During her address at the second edition of the Saudi Film Confex in Riyadh, Hoehne expressed her eagerness to diversify the panel of judges by including representatives from the Middle East. Currently, the lineup consists of judges from Turkey, the UAE, and Qatar.
“While we do not have any voters from Saudi Arabia at the moment, it is definitely on the horizon, and I am determined to make it happen,” Hoehne stated. “Our goal is to expand our reach and become even more globally inclusive than we already are.”
Explaining the selection process for voters, Hoehne mentioned, “We look for talented international journalists who specialize in entertainment media. They must go through an application and vetting process conducted by our Membership Board of Directors, which includes notable figures like Shivani Pandya Malhotra, Managing Director of the Red Sea International Film Festival.”
Hoehne highlighted that the organization currently boasts over 330 voters from 85 different countries, with plans for further expansion in the future. “Our voters represent diverse backgrounds, speak various languages, and consume content from across the globe. Sixty percent of our voting body is already diverse, and we aim to enhance this inclusivity moving forward.”
Expressing her enthusiasm for the burgeoning Saudi cinema industry, Hoehne remarked, “The Saudi film sector is incredibly promising and dynamic due to its novelty, which brings immense potential. I am thrilled about the films I have witnessed and the filmmakers I am yet to encounter.”
The Saudi Film Confex serves as a platform for local and international industry experts to deliberate on strategies to advance and fortify Saudi Arabia’s film landscape. Organized by the Saudi Film Commission, the event aligns with the nation’s cultural vision of fostering social and cultural diversity.
Aside from Hoehne, distinguished international speakers at the event included Sébastien Raybaud, founder of Anton, a UK-based production and financing company, renowned French filmmaker Luc Jacquet, and Jim Gianopulos, former CEO and chairman at 20th Century Fox. The keynote address was delivered by US actor and producer Will Smith.
