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Submitted
January 11, 2023
Accepted
June 21, 2023
Published
June 30, 2023
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Abstract

This article investigates the role of the General Commission for Audiovisual Media (GCAM) in the policymaking, regulation, and legislation related to the licensing and oversight of the Saudi film industry. It analyzes the regulatory history that led to the establishment of the GCAM and then examines how GCAM has managed the industry. It also explores GCAM’s two most significant activities: supporting the development of the film industry and censorship. Additionally, it seeks to determine whether GCAM is an overall contributor to or constraint on the industry in light of film censorship. The article examines the significant challenge GCAM faces in balancing openness and freedom of expression with its obligation to consider and respect Saudi society’s culture and traditions. This examination of GCAM reveals its role in film distribution and exhibition, censorship practices, and labor laws. As an oversight body, GCAM is responsible for media freedom. The findings reveal strict censorship, the high cost of film accessibility, and an absence of employment laws to protect film crews.

Keywords

Saudi cinema Film regulation Film censorship Saudi vision 2030 labor laws film distribution media freedom

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Copyright (c) 2023 Musab Alamri

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Author Biography

Musab Alamri, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Assistant Professor at the College of Media and Communication, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University

How to Cite
Alamri, M. . (2023). Film Regulation and Censorship Practices in Saudi Arabia: A Case Study of GCAM. Asian Journal of Media and Communication, 7(1). https://doi.org/10.20885/asjmc.vol7.iss1.art1
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