The adaptation is directed by Iraqi Dubai-based director Yasir Al Yasiri, who also takes a producer credit under his Axx Productions banner.
Image Nation Abu Dhabi, Vox Studios, and MBC Studios have announced the release of the Saudi fantasy feature HWJN, the feature adaptation of Saudi author Ibraheem Abbas’ renowned novel. The film is slated to hit cinemas across the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar on February 15, 2024.
Originally captivating Saudi audiences in 2013, HWJN swiftly garnered attention for its fusion of Western sci-fi elements with Arabic culture and folklore, a blend that resonated strongly with young readers. Published by Yatakhayaloon, founded by Yasser Bahjatt and Ibraheem Abbas, the novel quickly gained popularity, laying the groundwork for its cinematic adaptation.
Yasir Al Yasiri's ‘HWJN’ official trailer is out.@ImageNationAD@voxcinemas#MBCstudios #scifithriller @yasiryasiri #HWJN pic.twitter.com/nGTCcso1RD
— BroadcastPro ME (@BroadcastProME) July 26, 2023
HJWN made history as the first Saudi film to open the Red Sea International Film Festival in 2023, earning acclaim for its narrative and ensemble cast. Following its successful run in Saudi Arabia earlier this month, the film is poised to captivate audiences across the Gulf region.
Set against the backdrop of modern-day Jeddah, HWJN follows the journey of a benevolent jinn, HWJN (portrayed by Baraa Alem), as he endeavours to reclaim his royal lineage while confronting ancient malevolence to safeguard the delicate equilibrium between his realm and ours. Along this odyssey, he forms an unlikely romantic bond with Sawsan (played by Nour Alkhadra), a young medical student.
As one of the most ambitious undertakings to emerge from a landmark production partnership initiated in 2019 by Image Nation Abu Dhabi, MBC Studios, and Vox Studios, HWJN promises a cinematic experience unlike any other. Directed by Yasir Al Yasiri (Kaboos), the film boasts a stellar cast featuring Saudi talents such as Baraa Alem (The Sun of Gnosis), Nour Alkhadra (The Matchmaker), Nayef Althifery (Rashash), Alanoud Saud (Blackmail Note), and Mohsen Mansour (207). Axx Productions, led by Yasir Al Yasiri, takes the helm as the film’s producer, ensuring the realization of this epic saga on the silver screen.
