Summary of the episode: The artist who wrote the series Baba Farhan | Square Podcast

In this fascinating dialogue, the esteemed guest, artist Khalid Al-Harbi, discusses his diverse artistic journey, which began by chance and transitioned through various fields such as playwriting and film production. The conversation touches on the most famous works he contributed to, with a focus on “Baba Farhan,” which achieved great success and lasted for 13 seasons. He also addresses the importance of theater in shaping the identity of the artist and refers to the roots of Arab art and its long history. The dialogue also carries glimpses of beautiful memories associated with the month of Ramadan and the entertainment productions that captivated the audience during those times, reflecting the impact of art in people’s lives.

The discussion delves into the challenges Al-Harbi faced in the world of production and how he managed to revive his company after a period of hiatus, thanks to the support he received from the Ministry of Culture. Personal experiences of the guest are also evident, including his connection to art since childhood and how those experiences influenced his journey as an artist. The dialogue relies on details related to experiences in theatrical improvisation and its role as a form of therapy, highlighting the power of art in expressing human emotions. The overall atmosphere of the conversation is filled with optimism and inspiration, showcasing Al-Harbi’s passion for art and his desire to continue creating new works that resonate with the hearts of the audience.

The Cultural Impact of Saudi Series

The impact of Saudi series on society and local culture is significant, as these artistic works play a major role in forming cultural identity and reinforcing social values. Series such as “Tash Ma Tash” and “Baba Farhan” have achieved great success and captivated a wide audience, leaving a deep mark on collective memory. Many viewers talk about their connection to these works, as they represent a part of their daily lives, especially during the month of Ramadan when a number of series are aired. The ability to address societal issues in a humorous or dramatic way allows viewers to engage with them more.

The audience’s interaction with artistic works goes beyond mere viewing; it also includes discussions about the topics presented in those series. For instance, some episodes tackle sensitive social issues such as poverty, marriage, and family relationships, creating a platform for discussion on these topics in society. Moreover, the artistic performance of actors and the creativity of writers contribute to making these works more appealing, as they present characters close to reality, increasing the likelihood of empathy.

Additionally, some critics point out that these works reflect the social and political changes in the country, as they can introduce new topics that were previously unavailable. Hence, it can be said that Saudi series are not merely entertainment, but a powerful tool reflecting societal reality and contributing to its formation.

The Artistic Beginnings of Saudi Artists

The artistic beginnings play a pivotal role in shaping their artistic careers, as artists acquire their skills and experiences through the various experiences they undergo. For instance, artist Khalid Al-Harbi stumbled into the world of art by chance, starting his artistic life in theater, which is considered a starting point for many artists. Theater provides an ideal educational environment where artists can experiment with different roles and develop their skills in performance and improvisation.

Moreover, education and training during this period are essential components of success, as it requires a great deal of commitment and perseverance to reach advanced levels of professionalism. Many Saudi artists invest in developing their skills by enrolling in training courses and workshops, which enhances their chances of success. These early experiences play an important role in determining their artistic orientations and creative style.

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For example, some artists express their personal experiences in their works, making their works closer to the audience. These personal experiences help them create sympathetic and realistic characters, which increases the popularity of those works. In addition, artists’ communication with their audience through social media platforms helps them understand what the audience expects, thereby improving their artistic performance.

The Importance of Theater as a Source of the Arts

Theater is considered the heart of performing arts, as it represents the starting point for all other arts, such as cinema and television. Theater gives artists the opportunity for direct interaction with the audience, creating a unique experience. This direct relationship with the audience is one of the essential elements that distinguishes theater from other arts. In theater, performances occur in real-time, meaning that any mistake or slip can affect the entire show, adding an element of challenge and excitement to the performance art.

Theatrical performances require special skills, such as the ability to control voice and gestures, which requires continuous training. Additionally, actors learn how to read audience reactions, helping them improve their performance and provide an enjoyable and impactful experience. Unexpected interactions with the audience can lead to unique moments in the show, making theater an unforgettable experience.

Theater is also a place from which opinions and ideas can be expressed in an artistic and impactful way. Many writers and directors use theater to convey social or political messages, reflecting lived reality. This type of art can have a profound impact on society by stimulating discussions and opening doors for a deeper understanding of complex issues. Therefore, theater can be seen as a powerful tool for social and cultural change.

Challenges Faced by Saudi Artists

Despite the significant success achieved by Saudi artists, they face many challenges that affect their artistic careers. Among these challenges, there is often a limited number of available opportunities, as the entertainment industry in Saudi Arabia is still in its developmental stages, which means there is a need for more support and resources. Sometimes, it can be difficult to find platforms to showcase artistic works or to obtain funding for projects, affecting the artists’ ability to develop their skills and implement their creative ideas.

Additionally, Saudi artists must adapt to the social and political changes occurring in the country, which may require them to change their methods or the themes of their works. Some artists face significant pressure from society or the media, which affects their ability to express themselves freely. Under these circumstances, it becomes challenging to maintain artistic identity and individuality.

However, despite these challenges, many artists continue to work hard and strive to achieve their dreams. Some resort to collaborating with other artists or participating in collective projects to enhance their opportunities. This reflects the spirit of creativity and resilience among artists as they always find new ways to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. Their commitment to art and desire to create drive them to continue facing challenges, making them a source of inspiration for others.

The Beginnings of Theater and Acting

The roots of the discussion go back to the beginnings of university theater and the first experiences in acting. A theater troupe was established at King Abdulaziz University by a group of enthusiastic students. During the time period between 1989 and 1990, theater suffered from a lack of artistic activity, prompting these young people to search for a way to maintain their passion for acting. Therefore, they decided to form a new theater troupe aimed at presenting performances in various entertainment cities. By pooling financial resources, they managed to produce a play titled “The Elephant and His Uncle Farafir.” They used scripts imported from well-known authors in the field of children’s theater and focused on presenting content that respects the child’s intelligence and promotes positive values, reflecting their early awareness of the cultural impact of the arts.

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The play is under the supervision of an Egyptian director specialized in performances, which added a distinctive artistic flavor. The play included songs and performance scenes that captured children’s attention, contributing to the success of the show and attracting the audience. After this success, the troupe began to transform into a production institution, continuing to present new works and innovate content suitable for children’s needs, which helped enhance their position in the artistic arena.

The Experience of “Baba Farhan”

The experience of “Baba Farhan” comes as an important turning point in the history of Saudi theater, as this work was presented as part of a new vision for entertainment aimed at children. After the success of the first play, the crew received an offer to produce a children’s series, which led to the production of “Baba Farhan.” The series began in 1992 originally as five episodes presented during Eid al-Fitr, which was well-received by the audience. Subsequently, the producers decided to expand the series and produce new parts, presenting the show with new episodes during Ramadan.

“Baba Farhan” was distinguished by its approach to important educational and social topics in a comedic style that attracts children. It focused on the importance of values and national awareness, contributing to shaping the consciousness of generations. Relying on stories that reflect children’s daily life experiences made the series surpass being just an entertainment show and become part of popular culture. The “Baba Farhan” series continued over the years, including 13 seasons, reflecting the continuity of success and interaction with the audience. The experience also demonstrated how arts and media can influence society by providing meaningful content.

Challenges and Developments in Children’s Content Industry

As time advanced and social and cultural conditions changed, the children’s content industry faced new challenges. Starting in 2004, when the “Baba Farhan” show was halted, production teams struggled to find suitable alternatives. There was a growing awareness of the importance of providing content that takes into account modern developments and the needs of the new generation. Saudi television requested changes at the production level, leading to the disappearance of some old programs that were part of children’s memories.

Although new channels such as “Ajyal” emerged, the content presented did not match the quality or impact achieved by “Baba Farhan.” There was a lack of programs that combine entertainment and education, affecting children’s awareness and skills. With the increasing competition from new media such as the internet and streaming platforms, the need to develop content and present new ideas that align with the aspirations of the new generation became urgent.

Ongoing Success and Artistic Legacy

The impact of “Baba Farhan” continued even after its production stopped, as it is still considered a symbol of childhood in Saudi Arabia. The new generations of children who grew up watching the series are now parents themselves, contributing to its enduring influence. The series has been re-broadcast on new channels, bringing back childhood memories and its positive impact. This success can be attributed to several factors, including the authenticity and passion of the crew, in addition to focusing on providing content that aligns with social values and traditions.

The lasting effect of “Baba Farhan” reflects how artistic content can shape children’s consciousness and feelings. Whether through the positive messages conveyed by the series or through the manner in which it was presented, the experience of “Baba Farhan” serves as a successful model in the children’s content industry. It also highlights the importance of commitment to values and ethics in artistic works, reflecting the role of the arts in guiding and developing society.

Values in Children’s Content

Children’s content represents a significant part of our contemporary culture, with programs and animated shows targeting different age groups. This content serves as a means of entertainment and education for the new generations. However, there is much debate about the values and principles these programs promote. Some question the impact of this content on children’s growth and social awareness, as it is believed that the values presented in animated shows can profoundly influence children’s behavior and their ideas about the world. For example, programs like “Captain Majed” and “Tom and Jerry” may serve as models for discussing various values, such as friendship and cooperation, but are these values presented effectively?

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The past eras saw programs relying on traditional stories and clear values, while today we find that many programs contain hints or messages that can be interpreted in different ways. Parents may be concerned that these messages, if not clear, could leave a negative impact on children. Therefore, it is important that the content is carefully evaluated, and that it is interacted with critically, whether by parents or educational institutions.

There is also growing concern about animation addressing complex social issues, such as acceptance and diversity. While some strive to convey inclusive values through stories bearing positive messages, others see that some of these initiatives may conflict with the cultural and social values of different countries. Hence, it is essential to have an open dialogue about what children’s content should include, and how it can align with local values.

Developments in the World of Anime

The phenomenon of anime is considered one of the most popular arts in the world today, with its audience significantly growing among both youth and children. Anime is characterized by its diversity in stories and characters, making it appealing to various age groups. However, anime also faces criticisms regarding its content and themes. The discussion points out that some anime offer content that may not be suitable for children, which requires parents to be more vigilant when choosing what their children watch.

On the other hand, anime has the ability to address complex issues in a way that makes them more understandable for the new generations. For example, some works may raise topics such as friendship, courage, and sacrifice. These values serve as educational tools that enhance children’s awareness of the world around them and help them develop critical thinking skills.

Nonetheless, there remains a need for supervision and guidance from adults, especially with the increasing number of anime that address topics that may not be appropriate for children’s sensibilities. Therefore, having an open dialogue between parents and children about what they watch can contribute to reinforcing positive values and educating children about the content they consume.

Art as a Means of Expression and Communication

Art is considered one of the fundamental means of expressing ideas and emotions. It can be used as a powerful educational tool, as it presents to the audience an idea or message in a way that allows for deeper interaction. Whether through theater, films, or animation, art has the ability to communicate complex values and concepts in a simplified and engaging manner.

However, it is a challenge to find a balance between presenting engaging techniques and content that carries positive values. For instance, Disney films that combine animation with deep human values allow children to enjoy and entertain themselves while also learning about friendship, family, and courage. Conversely, there should be monitoring and critical analysis of artistic works that present content that may clash with cultural and social values.

Moreover, artists should be encouraged to engage with their communities and to be aware of the social and cultural issues surrounding them. Artists can play a significant role in raising awareness about social problems, such as discrimination and social justice, through their works. Thus, the conscious use of art can have a significant positive impact on society.

Challenges in the Children’s Content Industry

The children’s content industry faces many challenges, ranging from criticisms related to the content itself to issues related to funding and support. Creating outstanding content for new generations requires significant investments in arts and creativity, which can sometimes be difficult to achieve. Companies need to provide adequate resources to produce content that attracts children and positively reflects cultural and social values.

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national businesses can suffer from competition with foreign content, which often has larger budgets and greater influence on global platforms. This requires local content creators to think creatively and come up with new ideas that can align with children’s interests while also reflecting their culture and values.

Based on this, there should be support from governments and cultural institutions to promote the production of children’s content by providing grants and the necessary financial resources. This will enable creators to deliver content that combines entertainment and education, while also preserving cultural identity.

Challenges of the Artist in the Art World

Artists face significant challenges in their careers, as they must confront a number of obstacles that may hinder their progress. Among these challenges, we find fear of failure and anxiety over public response to artistic works. Many artists suffer from psychological pressures due to high expectations, whether those expectations are self-imposed or societal. For example, many artists talk about their experience with scripts that do not align with their artistic vision, leading to feelings of anxiety or frustration. It takes great courage to move forward with new projects without knowing the outcome, which is one of the prominent challenges faced by any artist.

Despite these challenges, the approach toward the right artistic work requires the artist to have a clear vision for their future. It is essential for the artist to learn how to manage their emotions and expectations, and to be prepared to accept feedback and constructive criticism. For instance, an artist may reject some works based on their convictions, but this rejection may lead to financial and psychological pressures. Therefore, artists need to balance their personal aspirations with financial needs. Sometimes, they have to accept works that may not be ideal for them but help them pay the bills.

The Importance of Art in the Lives of Individuals and Society

Art reflects life experiences and expresses people’s feelings, and it has a profound impact on communities. Art is a means of expressing identity and culture, and it helps strengthen social bonds among individuals. Through the arts, people can communicate and interact with each other’s experiences, which contributes to enhancing mutual understanding and empathy. For example, theater reflects the stories of the community and serves as a platform for discussing important social issues. By presenting theatrical works that address social themes, artists can help raise awareness about issues that affect their lives and the community at large.

Moreover, art can play an important role in addressing psychological and social issues. Many researchers have considered the arts to be an effective therapeutic means, as they help individuals express their feelings and cope with difficult experiences. For example, theater lessons can help children develop their self-confidence and improve their social skills. Art also helps adults express their feelings, which can contribute to reducing stress and anxiety. Therefore, it is important to recognize how art can have a positive impact on the lives of individuals and society as a whole.

Artists’ Experiences in Theater and Film Work

Artists’ experiences in theater and film work are filled with challenges and successes. Often, the artist finds themselves in situations that require them to work on several projects at the same time, leading to considerable pressures. For instance, an artist may have to move between different filming locations in the same day, to shoot scenes for multiple projects. This requires significant mental and physical preparation, in addition to the ability to handle stress and achieve balance among the different works.

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theatrical work can be unique, as artists gather on stage to present a live performance before an audience. This experience gives the artist an opportunity to express themselves directly and receive real feedback from the audience. In contrast, films may require intensive preparation and collaboration with a large team, adding a layer of complexity to the creative process. Ultimately, whether working in theater or cinema, every experience adds to the artist’s portfolio and enhances their skills, helping them grow in their field.

Artist’s Vision for the Future and Its Impact on Society

Artists always aspire to develop their skills and achieve a positive impact on society. An artist’s vision for the future requires them to think about how to use their talent to change the prevailing conditions. This may involve working on projects aimed at highlighting urgent social or cultural issues, thus achieving a deeper impact on the audience. Many artists seek to create artistic content that contributes to raising awareness about specific issues, such as human rights or the environment, making art a tool for social change.

It is also important for artists to strive to educate the new generations of creators, through workshops or educational programs. Transferring knowledge and experience to young people contributes to building a better future for art and society. The arts are not merely means of expression, but they are also means of communication and interaction, creating an inspiring future. Therefore, artists should have a clear vision of their role in society and how they can use their art to achieve a positive impact.

The Film “90 Days” and Its Family Impact

The film “90 Days” represents a unique experience in Saudi cinema, as it addresses a sensitive topic that is considered absent from the artistic scene in the Kingdom. The film discusses family life and the challenges faced by families, making it suitable for family viewing. The film demonstrated its ability to attract the attention of officials from Saudi television at the opening ceremony, where they expressed their desire to buy the rights to show it, indicating its artistic and cultural value. This enthusiasm from the concerned parties highlights the community’s attention to audiovisual arts and the importance of addressing social and familial issues within them.

By addressing family issues, the film contributes to creating a dialogue around topics that may sometimes be uncomfortable, but it opens the door for healthy discussion. The positive reactions from the audience show how cinema can be a platform for addressing real-life issues, reflecting the evolution of artistic taste in Saudi society.

Thanks to its subject matter, the film emphasizes the importance of cinema as a means of social communication between different generations. It provides families with the opportunity to watch a film that discusses issues that concern them, thereby increasing their interaction and encouraging them to have conversations about those topics after watching the film. This is one of the main goals that filmmakers strive to achieve.

Artistic and Cinematic Growth in Saudi Arabia

In recent years, Saudi cinema has witnessed remarkable growth, with a significant number of films being produced and screened professionally. This transformation is considered a major achievement, reflecting social and cultural changes in the Kingdom. The discussion about the films currently being produced shows that there is a growing interest in delivering content that is characterized by quality and depth.

The past three or four years represent a real turning point in the Saudi film industry, as films began to tackle diverse topics that reflect the experiences of the Saudi people. This development indicates that the arts can play an important role in promoting cultural identity. It serves as evidence that cinema is no longer just entertainment, but has become a means of expressing values, concerns, and aspirations.

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For example, films that have been showcased on global platforms like Netflix demonstrate how Saudi works are gaining international fame, which contributes to enhancing the image of Saudi culture in the world. These global platforms provide Saudi filmmakers with the opportunity to reach a broader audience, which in turn contributes to strengthening the position of Saudi cinema on the international stage.

Passion and Creativity in the World of Cinema

The film industry requires constant passion and creativity, which filmmakers express through their work. Passion is considered the main driving force behind working in this field, reflecting the desire to present something new and innovative to the audience. Talking about passion shows how filmmakers have the ability to overcome obstacles and challenges to achieve their artistic vision.

Passion serves as a true fuel in the lives of filmmakers, helping them to persist in the face of challenges, whether financial or creative. Holding onto passion and commitment to work shows that success is not merely a coincidence; it is a direct result of effort and dedication.

This passion can translate into artistic experiences that enrich the artistic scene and inspire a new generation of filmmakers and actors. By sharing their experiences, filmmakers can inspire others to seek their passion and pursue their dreams, thus enhancing the power of creativity within the community.

Appreciation of the Arts and Their Importance in Society

The arts go beyond being merely a means of entertainment; they reflect various values, beliefs, and cultures. Art is considered a powerful tool for social change, as it can have a positive impact on individuals and communities. Through films and the arts, issues that may be uncomfortable can be addressed, raising societal awareness and encouraging constructive discussions.

There is significant importance in appreciating the arts within society, as it enhances cultural awareness and encourages acceptance of diversity. Arts are seen as a bridge for communication between different cultures, contributing to mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence. When artists are given the opportunity to express themselves, it inspires others and invites them to present their unique visions.

Additionally, the arts play a vital role in boosting cultural tourism, as they can attract visitors to countries that embrace diverse arts and cultures. This demonstrates how the arts are not just a form of self-expression but also a means to enhance the local economy and develop the community.

The episode was summarized using artificial intelligence ezycontent

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