90% of "Assad" Wrapped: Historical Epic Nears Completion

Egypt Today

6 hours ago

The remaining scenes for the film "Assad" will be completed after Eid Al-Adha, after which the director will begin the post-production phase, which includes editing, sound mixing, scoring, and other final touches. Ultimately, the film will be prepared for release locally, regionally, and internationally.
Producer Moussa Abu Taleb emphasized that the production is following a meticulous plan to ensure the film is released in the best possible manner, with full support in terms of sets, costumes, and action training. He stated, 'The production of 'Assad' is massive and requires significant time for preparation and rehearsals. It takes us back to the 1800s and beyond—a historical period with unique details in clothing, set design, and accessories, which we aim to present cinematically with precision and authenticity.'
Abu Taleb added, 'We began preparations and previews over a year ago. Set designer Ahmed Fayez worked with a large team of engineers and workers to build sets that accurately reflect the era, in close collaboration with director Mohamed Diab. They also selected shooting locations that perfectly match the story's events—totaling 15 locations across Cairo, its outskirts, and several other governorates. Some sets, like those in the Media Production City, took nearly three months to complete. Preparations also included garments and accessories for approximately 2,000 people. Costume designer Reem El-Adl and her team exerted tremendous effort over six months to create period-accurate costumes for multiple scenes.'
He also discussed the intense preparation for the film's action sequences, which were rehearsed over various periods. He noted that the film includes numerous action scenes designed in a style never before seen in Arab cinema. These sequences were created in collaboration with a professional team led by world-renowned action choreographer Kaloyan Vodenicharov, who extensively trained the cast.
The film features around 70 actors, including 12 major stars and special guests from Egypt, Palestine, Lebanon, and Sudan. Additionally, 50 supporting actors appear in the film—some in single yet pivotal scenes.
Regarding the release date, Abu Taleb stated, 'At this stage, we cannot confirm a specific release date. All production phases must be fully completed first. Each stage is critical and will be executed with great care in specially selected locations to ensure the highest standards in image, sound, music, and visual effects. We aim to deliver a unique cinematic experience. Only once the film is finalized will we decide on a release date.'
On the story itself, he said, 'The events of 'Assad' unfold within a social and romantic framework, infused with suspense and action. The film explores themes of racial discrimination and the mistreatment of marginalized individuals in a historical context when such issues were prevalent and deeply impactful. 'Assad' presents a fresh narrative that has never been told on screen before—marked by originality and intensity.'
Most notably, "Assad" is directed by Mohamed Diab and written by Sherine Diab, Mohamed Diab, and Khaled Diab. The cinematography is by Ahmad Bishary, with editing by Ahmed Hafez. The sets are designed by Ahmed Fayez, costumes by Reem El-Adl, and the soundtrack is composed by Hisham Nazih. The film is produced by Moussa Abu Taleb's Good Fellas Media Production, in collaboration with Big Time Fund and Emad Sayed Ali's Scoop Egypt Production.
The cast includes Mohamed Ramadan, Lebanese actress Razane Jammal, Ali Kassem, Maged El-Kidwani, Sudanese actor Eslam Mubarak, Ahmed Dash, and Palestinian actor Kamel El-Basha.