The film, called Antara by director Simon West, is based on a true story and centres around the life of Antara ibn Shaddad, a sixth-century warrior turned celebrated poet and knight.
Antara, an upcoming historical drama directed by Lara Croft: Tomb Raider’s Simon West, will be shot at NEOM, in northwest Saudi Arabia. Co-produced by Alexander Amartei and Stuart Sutherland, known for Kandahar starring Gerard Butler, production in NEOM is scheduled for 12 weeks beginning in early 2024.
NEOM’s competitive 40 per cent cash rebate for various productions, including feature films and TV dramas, will support the film’s production, providing state-of-the-art sound stages, facilities and a skilled workforce. The film will be based at NEOM’s Bajdah Studios, using the stunning landscapes and cutting-edge sound stages available.
“The opportunity to film in the homeland of the Banu Abs tribe means we will keep true to the piece whilst helping to grow the emerging film industry in the region,” Simon West said.
Wayne Borg, Managing Director at NEOM, also highlighted the importance of international productions like Antara in boosting the local workforce and positioning NEOM as a hub for the media industry in the MENA region. “Our support of international productions, such as Antara, highlights the growing confidence film producers have in NEOM and reinforces our position as the gateway to the MENA region for the media industries,” he said.
