Director Haifaa Al Mansour is taking on a new project that delves into the reality of women in Saudi Arabia amidst a period of immense social change. Returning to her native country, Al Mansour is gearing up to shoot the crime feature Unidentified, which promises to tackle deeper issues affecting women in the Kingdom.
A Unique Crime Mystery
The story revolves around the discovery of the lifeless body of a teenage girl in the desert outside a small town. As no one comes forward to claim the body, Noelle Al Saffan, a recently divorced true crime enthusiast who is dealing with her own personal tragedy, becomes consumed with solving the mystery.
Set against the backdrop of a traditional society in transition, Unidentified showcases women who are learning to carve out their own paths and take control of their destinies. The film promises to shed light on the struggles and triumphs of women in Saudi Arabia as they navigate through a period of significant change.
A History of Trailblazing Work
Haifaa Al Mansour made history in 2012 with her debut film Wadjda, which was not only the first feature shot entirely in Saudi Arabia but also the first feature directed by a female Saudi filmmaker. The success of Wadjda opened doors for Al Mansour in the international film scene, leading her to direct other notable projects such as Mary Shelley and Nappily Ever After.
Unidentified marks a significant moment in Saudi cinema, especially with the recent lifting of the country’s cinema ban in 2017. As Al Mansour dives into this new project, she continues to push boundaries and challenge societal norms through her work. The script for Unidentified, co-written by Al Mansour and Brad Niemann, promises to captivate audiences with its suspenseful storyline and thought-provoking themes.
UTA Independent Film Group and Memento International are joining forces to co-sell Unidentified, with plans to launch the project at Cannes. The film is already generating buzz for its unique take on crime investigation and its exploration of societal topics. Both the production team and the international film community are eagerly anticipating the release of this groundbreaking film.
Unidentified represents a bold step forward for Saudi cinema and a continuation of Haifaa Al Mansour’s trailblazing career. With its focus on women’s stories and the complexities of a changing society, the film promises to spark important conversations and resonate with audiences around the world. Haifaa Al Mansour’s dedication to telling meaningful stories through her art is sure to make Unidentified a must-watch film in the future of Saudi Arabian cinema.