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RIYADH: Saudi horror movie “The Cello,” which was scripted by Turki Alalshikh, chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority, premiered at Riyadh’s Boulevard City this week.
The film is an adaptation of a novel written by Alalshikh, who is a renowned Saudi poet and writer. Directed by Darren Bousman of “Saw” fame, the horror film stars Jeremy Irons and Tobin Bell, as well as Elham Ali and Samer Ismail.
“The Cello” is the first Arabic international horror film. It tells the story of an aspiring cellist who encounters the perilous consequences of his instrument.
Renowned for his expertise in directing horror films, Darren Bousman shared his experience of creating a movie in the Kingdom with Arab News.
“It kind of opens my mind up and it lets me approach things differently than I would if we were in the US, but all of these actors are such pros, and they are all so amazing.”
US producer Lee Nelson collaborated with Bousman and the actors, and was greatly impressed by their commitment and diligence.
Nelson said: “They were devoted to their craft, really, and dedicated and worked very hard to bring the characters to life in an authentic way.”
Bousman and Nelson aimed to create a successful film that authentically portrays Saudi culture.
Nelson said that having the film be authentically Saudi was “crucial.”
He added: “As visitors and guests, we wanted to be respectful and maintain the authenticity of the working environment. Therefore, we actively listened and took in a lot of feedback.
Bousman said that actors used both Arabic and English on set to overcome the language barrier and ensure smooth and natural dialogue.
“There was a lot of having to listen and learn to figure out to find that balance …. so, we rehearsed the scenes in English and then the next minute they would be doing the whole thing in Arabic.”
Bousman praised Alalshikh’s remarkable efforts to develop the entertainment sector in the Kingdom. “I honestly will say that Turki Alalshikh was so integral in this; he basically shepherded us through this universe, and it was amazing getting to experience Saudi through his eyes.”
Saudi actress Elham Ali said that being a part of the horror film cast felt like a natural fit for her.
“I’m a huge fan of horror movies. I felt like I belong because I’m a fan of this type of artistic work. Today we are taking international steps. I am colleagues with international artists like Jeremy Irons and Tobin Bell, and director Darren Bousman.”
Ali added that the film serves as a stepping stone toward a more promising future for the Saudi film industry.
She said: “We are just an image that conveys the creativity we have. I was happy to see myself on the screen at this international level, with this lens, with this spirit, with something that I, Elham, saw in myself that was different.”
The movie showcases the talent of Syria’s Samer Ismail, British Oscar-winning actor Jeremy Irons and US star Tobin Bell.
“The Cello” will be released across the Kingdom on Sept. 14.
