Written and directed by filmmaker Rami Yasin, ‘Bloodline’ is being released under a landmark partnership between Image Nation Abu Dhabi, MBC Studios and Majid Al Futtaim.
MBC Group’s streaming platform Shahid is set to premiere Arabic horror film Bloodline on October 30 exclusively in the MENA region.
The feature film, written and directed by Rami Yasin, stars Egyptian actress Nelly Karim (Bi 100 Wesh, The Blue Elephant) and Dhafer L’Abidine (Arous Beirut, Taht Al Saytara).
In the film, Karim and L’Abidine play Nader and Lamia, the parents of twin boys. After one of their sons is left in a coma following an accident, the duo conceives an unorthodox plan to bring him back to life. While the plan seemingly works, the young boy soon begins to exhibit some disturbing behaviour and sinister intentions.
Bloodline was completed under a landmark partnership between, Image Nation Abu Dhabi, MBC Studios and Majid Al Futtaim, which was first announced at the 2019 Cannes Film Festival.
The partnership was launched with the aim to boost the Arab world’s growing film, TV and entertainment industry by producing a wider scope of exclusive regional content.
Commenting on his role, Tunisian actor L’Abidine said: “Of course, I was excited to take part in this production, because the role is completely different for me – and as the first Arabic-language vampire thriller – also different for audiences in the region. It made for a very unique experience and I am very happy with it.
“What’s great about this release is that streaming platforms [such as Shahid VIP] are important, because they deliver films directly to people’s homes, and therefore can reach the whole Arab world at once.”
Meanwhile, Karim said: “This film was an incredible project to be a part of. It was fantastic to be reunited with Dhafer in our first feature film together, and I’m sure fans will be intrigued by our unconventional onscreen roles. This is an exceptional film for the region and I can’t wait for audiences to stream it this month.”
Commenting on the film, Yasin remarked: “As an avid vampire fan, Bloodline has been my dream project for many years. It is a unique story for the Arab film industry, and I relished the challenge of creating the Arab world’s first vampire-themed film, hoping to make my mark on this genre. Working with stars like Nelly and Dhafer, as well as our incredible cast and crew, helped to bring my distinct vision to life. I sincerely hope Bloodline will resonate with audiences not just in our region but around the world.”
Bloodline is produced by Film Clinic, a production house founded by the Egyptian producer and screenwriter Mohamed Hefzy and counts Majid Al Ansari and Gabi Antal as executive producers. The film also features twin brothers John and Pieter Ramy in their acting debut.
