Director Simon West, known for his work on Con Air, Lara Croft: Tomb Raider and The Expendables 2, has begun work on his new film project. This is the epic drama “Antara,” which tells the story of Antara ibn Shaddad, a 6th-century slave who gained his freedom and became a knight, and one of the most famous poets of ancient Arabia.
Here’s what we know
“Antara” is a film based on true events that tells the story of Antara ibn Shaddad, a 6th century slave who managed to gain his freedom and become a knight, and one of the most famous poets of ancient Arabia.
The film will be shot in the Neom region of northwestern Saudi Arabia and co-produced by screenwriter and producer Alexander Amartei. Stuart Sutherland from Celtic Arabia is also involved in the production of the film. He is known for his work on Killing Eve, Born A King and The Man Who Fell To Earth. He was also recently involved in the production of the film “Kandahar” starring Gerard Butler in the region.
Filming in Neom, where a $500 billion megacity is planned, is expected to last 12 weeks and begin in early 2024. Filming will take place at Bajdah Studios and the project will benefit from a planned cost recovery of 40%.
“Bringing the story of Antara ibn Shaddad to the screen and to the general public is a unique opportunity to uphold his legend,” said Mr. West. “Antara’s life is one of those relatively little-known true stories that proves that reality can be far stranger than fiction. The opportunity to film in the homeland of the Banu Abs tribe means we can stay involved in the work while helping with development.” I’m excited to be part of this project and look forward to creating something unique for a global to create an audience.
“We are thrilled to be working with Neom to bring the world the first major sword-and-sand epic since Troy and Gladiator,” said Mr. Amartey. “Just as ‘Hidden Tiger and Dragon’ marked a complete paradigm shift for Chinese cinema, we see ‘Antara’ as a cultural extravaganza that will set a completely new benchmark in the region and wow the world in a lavish and sophisticated artistic way.”
Following the release of the film “Kandahar” starring Gerard Butler earlier this year and the upcoming film “Desert Warrior”, the news of “Antara” is another sign that Hollywood productions are gradually turning to Saudi Arabia, which is actively investing in its development important filming location.
When can we expect?
Currently, no date has been announced for the film to begin filming or be released.
Source: THR THR