NYFA Alum Lina Malaika on Her Creative Career and Developing "Red Sea" with Natasha Lyonne

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Alumni NYFA

06.16.2026

NYFA Alumni Network: Can you tell us a bit about yourself, where you’re from, and what first inspired you to pursue a filmmaking career?

Lina Malaika (L.M.): I’m a Saudi multidisciplinary artist and filmmaker from Jeddah. My practice spans a variety of mediums, including visual arts, photography, writing, and film. I am the founder of Al-Nisr Films, a production company focused on film production, creative development, and consulting.

Storytelling has always been at the center of everything I do. Long before I worked in film, I was creating through photography, design, and visual arts. Film felt like the natural evolution of those interests because it combines so many artistic disciplines into one medium. I’ve known from a young age that I wanted to tell stories, and filmmaking became the most powerful way for me to do that.

In addition to directing and producing films, I’ve worked across commercials, editorials, documentaries, music videos, and branded content. I’m also a contributing film columnist for Vogue Arabia, where I write about cinema and storytelling.NYFA Alumni Network: What projects have you worked on since graduating? Have you won any awards or been showcased in festivals or competitions?

Over the past decade, I’ve worked across a wide range of projects, including short films, documentaries, commercials, music videos, and cultural commissions.

One of my most recognized films is Maskoon, a psychological thriller that premiered at the Red Sea International Film Festival and was also screened at the Saudi Film Festival. I’ve also co-directed projects such as One Giant Leap, documenting Saudi Arabia’s first astronauts, and have produced work for cultural and governmental initiatives.

In 2024, I was honored with the Rising Star Award at the Playbook Awards. Beyond awards, I’m grateful that my work has allowed me to collaborate with incredible creatives and contribute to the growing Saudi film industry during a transformative moment in its history.

NYFA Alumni Network: Tell us more about your latest project Red Sea. What originally sparked the idea for it?
L.M.: I’ve always been a huge fan of shark films. I’ve watched everything—from major studio productions to the smallest independent shark movies—and I’ve always loved the genre’s ability to combine suspense, adventure, and entertainment.

The idea for Red Sea came from a simple question I had as a child: :Why haven’t we seen a major shark film set in the Red Sea? It’s one of the most historically, culturally, and geographically significant bodies of water in the world, yet it has rarely been explored through this genre.

As someone who grew up on the Red Sea coast, I felt there was an opportunity to tell a story that combines the excitement of a shark thriller with the unique landscapes, cultures, and mysteries of the region. The project has evolved significantly over the years, but that original curiosity remains at its core.

NYFA Alumni Network: Red Sea has attracted notable collaborators, including Natasha Lyonne as a producer. How did that partnership come about, and what have you learned from working with industry leaders at that level?

L.M.: Natasha is a creative force. She’s a writer, producer, director, and performer who approaches storytelling with incredible originality and fearlessness.

We’ve been friends for years, and when I shared the concept of Red Sea with her, she immediately connected with the project and expressed interest in being involved. Her enthusiasm was incredibly encouraging, especially during the development phase.

The project has also attracted interest from several respected producers, creatives, and industry professionals. What I’ve learned most from working with people at that level is the importance of conviction. The strongest creatives trust their instincts, take risks, and remain deeply committed to their vision while still embracing collaboration. It’s been inspiring to witness firsthand.

NYFA Alumni Network: What does your creative process look like, from the initial idea to a finished screenplay or film?

L.M.: For me, everything begins with an idea. I keep notebooks full of concepts, observations, images, and story fragments. Once an idea proves it has depth, I begin developing the screenplay.

I believe the script is the foundation of any successful film, so that’s where a significant amount of time and energy goes. With a project like Red Sea, the process is particularly interesting because it exists between cultures and languages, blending Saudi Arabic dialogue with an international narrative.

Once the script reaches a strong stage, my team at Al-Nisr Films begins building the production strategy. That includes assembling key collaborators, identifying creative partners, securing financing, and developing the visual language of the project.

From there, the process moves through pre-production, production, post-production, and eventually marketing and distribution. Every stage is important, but everything starts with a great script.NYFA Alumni Network: Having worked across multiple genres and formats, what has been the most valuable lesson you’ve learned as a filmmaker?

L.M.: The most valuable lesson I’ve learned is the importance of authenticity. Audiences can sense when something is genuine, and I try to bring honesty to every project I create.

I’ve also learned that filmmaking is fundamentally collaborative. No film is made alone. Some of the most rewarding experiences in my career have come from working alongside talented people whose perspectives challenge and strengthen my own.

Balancing conviction in your vision with openness to collaboration is something I continue to learn every day.

NYFA Alumni Network: How do you see the Saudi film industry evolving, and what opportunities excite you most for the next generation of filmmakers?

L.M.: It’s been incredibly exciting to witness the growth of the Saudi film industry over the last few years. We are seeing new filmmakers, writers, producers, actors, and technicians emerge at a remarkable pace.

What excites me most is that we’re only beginning to tell our stories. Saudi Arabia is filled with unique perspectives, histories, landscapes, and cultures that have rarely been explored on screen. There is still so much creative territory left to discover.

We’re also fortunate to have increasing support through festivals, funding initiatives, educational programs, and industry organizations. The combination of talent and infrastructure creates tremendous opportunities for the next generation of storytellers.

NYFA Alumni Network: What advice would you give students and young alumni who want to build a career in film, media, or storytelling?

Stay curious and stay authentic. It’s easy to compare yourself to others, but the most valuable thing you have is your own perspective. The stories that resonate most often come from a place of honesty rather than imitation.

Don’t wait for perfect circumstances. Make things with whatever resources you have available. Every project teaches you something valuable.

Most importantly, collaborate. Reach out to people you admire. Build relationships. Be generous with others and open to learning. The film industry is built on community, and many opportunities come from simply being willing to start a conversation.

And remember: ideas that seem unusual or impossible today may become the projects that define your career tomorrow.

NYFA Alum Lina Malaika on Her Creative Career and Developing "Red Sea" with Natasha Lyonne

2026-06-16 20:25:00

network.nyfa.edu

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2026-07-02 23:27:35

2026-06-16 20:44:13

Alumni NYFA

NYFA Alum Lina Malaika is a Saudi filmmaker, writer, and multidisciplinary artist. Malaika is the founder of Al-Nisr Films and has worked across film, documentaries, commercials, music videos, and cultural projects, earning recognition as one of Saudi Arabia’s emerging creative voices. In this Q&A, she reflects on her filmmaking journey, discusses the inspiration behind her shark thriller Red Sea, and shares insights into collaborating with acclaimed producer and actress Natasha Lyonne.NYFA Alumni Network: Can you tell us a bit about yourself, where you’re from, and what first inspired you to pursue a filmmaking career?Lina Malaika (L.M.): I’m a Saudi multidisciplinary artist and filmmaker from Jeddah. My practice spans a variety of mediums, including visual arts, photography, writing, and film. I am the founder of Al-Nisr Films, a production company focused on film production, creative development, and consulting.Storytelling has always been at the center of everything I do. Long before I worked in film, I was creating through photography, design, and visual arts. Film felt like the natural evolution of those interests because it combines so many artistic disciplines into one medium. I’ve known from a young age that I wanted to tell stories, and filmmaking became the most powerful way for me to do that.In addition to directing and producing films, I’ve worked across commercials, editorials, documentaries, music videos, and branded content. I’m also a contributing film columnist for Vogue Arabia, where I write about cinema and storytelling.NYFA Alumni Network: What projects have you worked on since graduating? Have you won any awards or been showcased in festivals or competitions?Over the past decade, I’ve worked across a wide range of projects, including short films, documentaries, commercials, music videos, and cultural commissions.One of my most recognized films is Maskoon, a psychological thriller that premiered at the Red Sea International Film Festival and was also screened at the Saudi Film Festival. I’ve also co-directed projects such as One Giant Leap, documenting Saudi Arabia’s first astronauts, and have produced work for cultural and governmental initiatives.In 2024, I was honored with the Rising Star Award at the Playbook Awards. Beyond awards, I’m grateful that my work has allowed me to collaborate with incredible creatives and contribute to the growing Saudi film industry during a transformative moment in its history.NYFA Alumni Network: Tell us more about your latest project Red Sea. What originally sparked the idea for it?L.M.: I’ve always been a huge fan of shark films. I’ve watched everything—from major studio productions to the smallest independent shark movies—and I’ve always loved the genre’s ability to combine suspense, adventure, and entertainment.The idea for Red Sea came from a simple question I had as a child: :Why haven’t we seen a major shark film set in the Red Sea? It’s one of the most historically, culturally, and geographically significant bodies of water in the world, yet it has rarely been explored through this genre.As someone who grew up on the Red Sea coast, I felt there was an opportunity to tell a story that combines the excitement of a shark thriller with the unique landscapes, cultures, and mysteries of the region. The project has evolved significantly over the years, but that original curiosity remains at its core.NYFA Alumni Network: Red Sea has attracted notable collaborators, including Natasha Lyonne as a producer. How did that partnership come about, and what have you learned from working with industry leaders at that level?L.M.: Natasha is a creative force. She’s a writer, producer, director, and performer who approaches storytelling with incredible originality and fearlessness.We’ve been friends for years, and when I shared the concept of Red Sea with her, she immediately connected with the project and expressed interest in being involved. Her enthusiasm was incredibly encouraging, especially during the development phase.The project has also attracted interest from several respected producers, creatives, and industry professionals. What I’ve learned most from working with people at that level is the importance of conviction. The strongest creatives trust their instincts, take risks, and remain deeply committed to their vision while still embracing collaboration. It’s been inspiring to witness firsthand.NYFA Alumni Network: What does your creative process look like, from the initial idea to a finished screenplay or film?L.M.: For me, everything begins with an idea. I keep notebooks full of concepts, observations, images, and story fragments. Once an idea proves it has depth, I begin developing the screenplay.I believe the script is the foundation of any successful film, so that’s where a significant amount of time and energy goes. With a project like Red Sea, the process is particularly interesting because it exists between cultures and languages, blending Saudi Arabic dialogue with an international narrative.Once the script reaches a strong stage, my team at Al-Nisr Films begins building the production strategy. That includes assembling key collaborators, identifying creative partners, securing financing, and developing the visual language of the project.From there, the process moves through pre-production, production, post-production, and eventually marketing and distribution. Every stage is important, but everything starts with a great script.NYFA Alumni Network: Having worked across multiple genres and formats, what has been the most valuable lesson you’ve learned as a filmmaker?L.M.: The most valuable lesson I’ve learned is the importance of authenticity. Audiences can sense when something is genuine, and I try to bring honesty to every project I create.I’ve also learned that filmmaking is fundamentally collaborative. No film is made alone. Some of the most rewarding experiences in my career have come from working alongside talented people whose perspectives challenge and strengthen my own.Balancing conviction in your vision with openness to collaboration is something I continue to learn every day.NYFA Alumni Network: How do you see the Saudi film industry evolving, and what opportunities excite you most for the next generation of filmmakers?L.M.: It’s been incredibly exciting to witness the growth of the Saudi film industry over the last few years. We are seeing new filmmakers, writers, producers, actors, and technicians emerge at a remarkable pace.What excites me most is that we’re only beginning to tell our stories. Saudi Arabia is filled with unique perspectives, histories, landscapes, and cultures that have rarely been explored on screen. There is still so much creative territory left to discover.We’re also fortunate to have increasing support through festivals, funding initiatives, educational programs, and industry organizations. The combination of talent and infrastructure creates tremendous opportunities for the next generation of storytellers.NYFA Alumni Network: What advice would you give students and young alumni who want to build a career in film, media, or storytelling?Stay curious and stay authentic. It’s easy to compare yourself to others, but the most valuable thing you have is your own perspective. The stories that resonate most often come from a place of honesty rather than imitation.Don’t wait for perfect circumstances. Make things with whatever resources you have available. Every project teaches you something valuable. Most importantly, collaborate. Reach out to people you admire. Build relationships. Be generous with others and open to learning. The film industry is built on community, and many opportunities come from simply being willing to start a conversation.And remember: ideas that seem unusual or impossible today may become the projects that define your career tomorrow.