Fest Track On Sirk TV Film Review: HUMAN TIDE [Red Sea International Film Festival 2025 - Jeddah, Saudi Arabia]
The pilgrimage for Hajj to Mecca in Saudi Arabia is something that has always carried an air of mystery to it, especially to non-Muslims who visit Saudi Arabia. The symbolic and literal path taken, as with all religions, differs with many different individuals. During the Red Sea Film Fest, one can turn on the channels and see live feeds from the Holy City with people surrounding the center of the city. Flying into Jeddah, the men change into their pilgrimage robes before the flight. It seems to be a time of joy but also somber reflection. An astronaut from the ISS even took a photo a couple days ago which showed the brightness of Mecca's white light from orbit. What is great about "Human Tide" (New Saudi Cinema) directed by David Ward is it following the paths of a couple different people from around the world before they converge on their own individual paths to Mecca. Each story is about making the path their own in how it applies to their lives. For such a communal activity, this documentary shows how very individual it is as well. A son from Sweden going with his more infirmed father is one. A young man about to become a doctor traveling along with his mother is another. A couple from Ghana hoping to conceive a child is on another path. Another story is a couple who found each other later in life but with the father, leaving a sick daughter for the trip, changes the meaning in certain ways of being at Mecca but also reinforces his belief.
The really interesting element is the cameramen fiiming with these subjects literally on the ground there which is not always permitted. In fact recently it was announced that during Hajj (likely for 2026) it is said no photography would be allowed per se. Watching people moving through these area is much different and emotional from ground level than the shots from the stationary cameras. It feels more human even though there is an epic feel to it simply because of its size and majesty. Seeing the drone shots and other perspectives not usually afforded here really adds to the understanding because the play in the three acts is about before, during and after. It really gives a sense of accomplishment and intent since it is an annual pilgrimage that most Muslims are encouraged to take if able. Because of expense, some only go there once in their lifetime but one can sense its power because it means one thing when you are young, when you are middle aged and even when you are elderly. Unlike most holy landmarks in the world, Mecca stands out in many ways because of this. Ward is very grounded in his approach and yet some of the cinematic shots of the crowds of people praying, moving, throwing small stones at the pillar set to some beautiful music secured through the Audio Network licensing program are riveting at times. Not all prayers likely come true but the essence of hope, good fortune and belief are tenets that continue here in the story with a sense of humanity. "Human Tide" captures this essence. B+
By Tim Wassberg
