Mahmoud Sabbagh, a renowned Saudi director, is back with a new film that promises to push boundaries for its depiction of Saudi Arabia in a time of sweeping change. Titled “Last Party In R. Desert,” this dark comedy revolves around Najm, a cash-driven local impresario, who navigates the nightlife scene with his music troupe amidst professional strife and a shifting cultural landscape in contemporary Saudi Arabia.
The Cast
Abdullah Albarrak takes on the lead role of Najm, while Marwa Salem shines as the troupe’s new lead female singer, Cola. The late actor Sami Hanafi portrays Silver, the professional sound engineer, and renowned local musician Radwan Jifri graces the screen as oud player Tarefi. Together, they bring Sabbagh’s vision to life, promising audiences a night filled with twists, turns, and disruptions.
Sabbagh not only directed “Last Party In R. Desert” but also wrote and produced the film under the banner of El-Housh Productions, based in Jeddah. The movie was shot in various locations in Saudi Arabia, including the outskirts of Jeddah and the capital city of Riyadh. Co-produced with Nine Projects, a boutique production company in Cairo and Dubai, the film explores the dynamics of Saudi nightlife against the backdrop of social change.
The Distribution
Front Row Arabia is set to distribute the film in Saudi theaters, bringing Sabbagh’s unique storytelling to a wider audience. Additionally, the Arab Radio and Television Network (ART) will serve as the digital distributor across the MENA region, expanding the reach of Saudi cinema beyond national borders.
The Director’s Legacy
Sabbagh made history with his 2016 film “Barakah Meets Barakah,” one of Saudi Arabia’s first feature films to be shot following the easing of the country’s 35-year cinema ban. The romantic comedy, starring Hisham Fageeh and Fatima Al-Banawi, premiered at international film festivals and was later acquired by Netflix, solidifying Sabbagh’s position as a pioneering filmmaker in the Saudi cinema landscape.
In addition to his work in film, Sabbagh opened Cinema El-Housh in 2019, the first official art house cinema in Jeddah, further contributing to the growth of cinema culture in the city. While he briefly served as the head of the Red Sea International Film Festival, Sabbagh decided to return to filmmaking after the event faced challenges due to the Covid-19 pandemic. With “Last Party In R. Desert,” Sabbagh continues to push the boundaries of Saudi cinema, offering audiences a unique perspective on the country’s cultural landscape.
Mahmoud Sabbagh’s latest film is poised to make a significant impact on Saudi cinema, blending dark comedy with social commentary in a way that challenges traditional narratives. As the Saudi film industry continues to evolve, directors like Sabbagh play a crucial role in shaping the future of storytelling in the region. “Last Party In R. Desert” stands as a testament to Sabbagh’s vision and innovation, inviting audiences to engage with Saudi cinema in a new and exciting light.