National Geographic Documentary Films Acquires ‘Saudi Runaway’

National Geographic Documentary Films has acquired the worldwide rights to “Saudi Runaway” following its debut at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival.

“Saudi Runaway,” which will premiere on Tuesday at the Berlin International Film Festival, chronicles the story of a brave young Saudi woman, Muna, who reckons with her upcoming arranged marriage and takes her fate into her own hands, although it’s risky.

The documentary directed by Susanne Regina Meures features never-seen-before views into Saudi Arabia’s patriarchal culture and her claustrophobic existence.

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“Muna is one of the strongest-willed and most courageous women I know,” Meures said. “Unprecedented, as a Saudi woman, Muna dares to speak up. She shares her pain and offers us a glimpse into a hidden world. Although the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is at the centre of world affairs, very few authentic images of life there exist. Muna’s story is of great urgency and relevance and essentially summarizes a human rights drama at its core.”

Meures’ debut film, “Raving Iran,” was shown at over 130 films worldwide and won numerous awards. “Saudi Runaway” is her second feature-length documentary. She also served as a screenwriter and co-producer on the project, alongside Christian Frei, who also edited the film.

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The deal was negotiated by Stefan Kloos for Rise and Shine World Sales and Jason Ishikawa for Cinetic on behalf of the filmmakers.

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