Hobby Hub – Fatema AlShehhi

 

Tell us a bit about yourself

Hi! I’m Fatema AlShehhi, currently a PGY2 Emergency Medicine Resident at the Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi (CCAD). When I’m not doing clinical shifts, I like to unwind by watching movies and sometimes going out for a walk.

What genre of movies do you enjoy most?

It’s hard to pinpoint a specific genre, but over the years I would have to say I have a predilection towards psychological thrillers. One movie that stands out as a favorite in recent memory is ‘Shutter Island’, which is where my love of mind-bending story-telling, plot twists and unexpected endings probably shone brightest.

Unfortunately, while I would recommend the watch, I personally wouldn’t prefer re-watching when you remember the ending beforehand as, for me, it spoils some of the excitement and element of surprise.

Do you vet your movies beforehand or prefer going in blind?

Going in blind is fun sometimes, but I have to be honest, I get picky with my movies and often evaluate whether the 2 hours or so are going to be worth my time.

I will usually read or watch a movie review or rely on what’s been said about a movie by others who’ve seen it before figuring out if it would be of interest to me. It’s not a strict vetting process per se, but it helps me weed out some time-wasters for sure.

Any upcoming movies that have your interest piqued?

Not at the moment, no. I don’t often go to the cinema to catch new releases and usually just end up watching older movies at home. Any new releases eventually trickle their way down to my TV over time if they’re worth the watch.

Any particular movie-watching rituals?

I take my movie watching environment seriously. Depending on my mood, I watch the movies alone or with friends and family. When there is a horror movie on, though, I set the room up so there are no distractions.

Contrary to convention, this also means NO POPCORN or any food or drink around. Phone silent, cozy on the couch and eyes front. I like to have my focus a 100% while movie-watching.

 

You mentioned walking – in this weather?!

Haha, yeah, Summer isn’t the best time for a walk so I’d say it’s kind of a seasonal hobby if I’m being honest. When the mood and weather is right, however, I can go for long walks out with family and literally spend hours just talking as we make our way.

Some great spots for this would be Al Maryah Island and Al Reem Park in Abu Dhabi. A good walk is a great way to recharge once every couple of weeks.

 

 

 

Find Fatema on Twitter @f_a979