Skivas

In a traditional Saudi Arabian society, a young man named Skivas yearns to express his true identity through his passion for dance. He faces immense pressure from his family and community, who expect him to conform to societal norms. The film explores his internal struggle and his quiet rebellion against these expectations as he seeks a path to self-acceptance and fulfillment.

Skivas was a modest independent film that garnered attention primarily within short film festival circuits, particularly for its sensitive portrayal of cultural identity and artistic expression in Saudi Arabia. While it didn't achieve mainstream critical acclaim, it was praised for its authentic depiction of internal conflict and its visual storytelling. Audience reception, particularly in regions where the themes resonated, was generally positive, acknowledging its bravery in tackling such subjects.

• Praised for its sensitive exploration of identity and artistic passion.

• Commended for its authentic portrayal of societal pressures and internal struggle.

• Noted for its understated yet impactful visual storytelling.

Google audience: Information not available for this independent short film.

Nominated for Best Short Film at the Riyadh Festival (2020).

The film's director, Mina M. T. Panahi, aimed to use dance as a metaphor for unspoken desires and the struggle for self-expression in a conservative environment.