Saudi Arabia’s Long Delayed First Hollywood-Style Blockbuster ‘Desert Warrior,’ Starring Anthony Mackie, Is Finally About to Surface (EXCLUSIVE)

As a film enthusiast with a keen eye for cinematic history, I must say that the journey of “Desert Warrior” has been nothing short of captivating. The film, with its grand scale and ambitious vision, mirrors the spirit of the 7th-century Arabia it seeks to portray – filled with drama, intrigue, and a relentless pursuit for greatness.

Three years back, there was much excitement when Saudi Arabia unveiled its initial blockbuster film, an action-packed production named “Desert Warrior”. This movie was planned to be filmed in a picturesque location surrounding the future city of NEOM, with a substantial budget of $150 million.

Directed by the acclaimed British filmmaker Rupert Wyatt (“Rise of the Planet of the Apes”), and boasting an impressive ensemble cast that includes Anthony Mackie (Captain America), Ben Kingsley, and Aiysha Hart (Mogul Mowgli, Colette), the movie “Desert Warrior” is a historical epic set in 7th century Arabia before Islam. At this time, Saudi Arabia was composed of warring tribes constantly at odds with each other. However, production of this film has been plagued by continual reshoots, edits, and internal conflicts.

However, it appears that “Desert Warrior,” co-produced by MBC Studios (owned by Saudi Arabia) and Jeremy Bolt (“Resident Evil”) from the U.S., along with AGC Studios led by Stuart Ford, has found some tranquility now. The grandiose saga, seen as a reflection of Saudi Arabia’s aspiration to create premium content for worldwide viewers, is expected to be unveiled next year, potentially on the film festival circuit.

Previously removed from “Desert Warrior” during the chaos by MBC, Wyatt has since returned to the project, and Ford considers this a positive development.

Rupert returned to the film project in the early autumn, and it’s set to be completed during the first three months of the coming year,” Ford shared with EbMaster at the Marrakech Film Festival recently. He mentioned that he felt he played a significant role in reaching this decision, as they were indeed at a critical juncture, around six to seven months prior.

As a movie enthusiast, I can’t contain my anticipation! In just two weeks, I’ll be in New York City to catch Wyatt’s cut. I firmly believe that offering him the chance to complete his work was undeniably the right call by MBC.

Ford emphasized that while the film may have veered off course momentarily, it shouldn’t be critiqued based on that incident alone. The film should instead be evaluated based on its final version and not on the timeline of its post-production process.

As a captivated spectator, I find myself immersed in the grandiose tale of “Desert Warrior.” In this cinematic masterpiece, Kingsley portrays Emperor Kisra, infamous for his relentless ruthlessness. When the enchanting Arabian princess Hind (Hart) bravely refuses to join Kisra’s harem, her defiance sets the stage for an exhilarating showdown.

Following excessive production expenses for “Desert Warrior,” it’s undeniable that its epic battle sequence will leave many spectators on edge, hoping for an impressive outcome. It had better deliver.

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2024-12-07 15:17