Renowned Saudi director
Abdulaziz al-Shlahei to shoot new feature 'Hobal' in NEOM
Acclaimed Saudi
filmmaker Abdulaziz al-Shlahei is set to embark on a cinematic journey to NEOM,
Saudi Arabia, to shoot his highly anticipated feature film, 'Hobal.' Commencing
production in September, the movie delves into the compelling tale of a Saudi
family confined to isolation in the desert during the early 1990s. Under the
strict rule of their grandfather, the family is prohibited from leaving their
desert dwelling. However, a series of events unravels their foundations,
throwing them into a harrowing struggle between life and death.
The film's all-Saudi
cast features esteemed actors Mohammed al-Toyan and Mishal al-Mutairi, adding
to the project's local authenticity and talent.
'Hobal' marks
al-Shlahei's third feature film, following the success of his Saudi period
drama, 'The Tambour of Retribution.' The latter garnered two awards at the
Cairo Film Festival and earned the distinction of being Saudi Arabia's
submission for Best International Feature Film at the 94th Academy Awards in
2022.
The scriptwriter for
'Hobal,' Mufarrej Al-Majfel, was among the winners of the fund award presented
at the Saudi Film Commission's Daw Film Competition. This initiative, initiated
by Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Culture in 2019, aims to support local film
production and foster a new generation of filmmakers by establishing
sustainable funding programs. The goal is to bring compelling Saudi content to
the silver screen and reach wider audiences.
Abdulaziz al-Shlahei
expressed his excitement about shooting the film in NEOM, particularly in the
captivating landscapes of Bajdah. He emphasized that these picturesque settings
will play an influential and integral role in the film's narrative, adding
depth to the storytelling.
NEOM has taken on a
significant role in supporting the film's production. The location will offer
vital production assistance, including providing a skilled crew, conducting
location scouting, managing logistics, and offering on-the-ground production
expertise.
At Bajdah Studios in
NEOM, filmmakers can avail themselves of the stunning natural landscapes while
benefiting from state-of-the-art sound stages complete with back-of-house
facilities, including make-up rooms, green rooms, and production offices.
Wayne Borg, Managing
Director of Media Industries, Entertainment, and Culture at NEOM, expressed his
delight at being the chosen location for 'Hobal.' He pledged full support to
Abdulaziz Alshlahei in bringing his vision to life on the silver screen,
highlighting the exciting growth of the local film industry.
NEOM's breathtaking
surroundings have already served as the backdrop for numerous local projects
spanning film and television. From documentaries to works of fiction, NEOM has
hosted notable productions such as Rupert Wyatt's 'Desert Warrior,' featuring
Anthony Mackie and Sir Ben Kingsley, and 'Dunki,' directed by Rajkumar Hirani
and starring Shahrukh Khan.
The region has also
witnessed landmark productions, including the first regional reality TV show,
'Million Dollar Island,' and the region's biggest-ever budget TV show, 'Rise of
The Witches.' MBC's 'Exceptional,' a highly anticipated TV drama series
comprising 200 episodes a year, is also scheduled to commence shooting in July.
As NEOM continues to
nurture and facilitate creative ventures, the region cements its position as a
hub for compelling storytelling and innovative filmmaking that resonates not
only within the region but transcends borders worldwide.
Source: Alarabiya
0 Comments