‘Tomb Raider’ Director Simon West to Direct Saudi Arabia-Set Epic ‘Antara’ at Neom’s Bajdah Studios
variety.comNick Vivarelli International Correspondent British Hollywood director Simon West (“Con Air,” “Lara Croft:Tomb Raider”) is set to direct Saudi Arabia-set epic “Antara” that will be shot in Neom, the sprawling production hub in Saudi Arabia’s northwestern corner.
The English-language blockbuster based on Arab history is the tale of Antara ibn Shaddad, a slave warrior who was propelled to mythical status in the sixth century after winning his freedom and becoming a beloved knight and a widely celebrated Bedouin poet in the region. “Antara,” which was announced during the Venice Film Festival – where there is a strong Saudi industry presence – is co-produced by Irish entrepreneur, writer and producer Alexander Amartei.
British producer Stuart Sutherland, CEO of Celtic Films Entertainment is co-producing through his Celtic Arabia shingle. Sutherland, whose credits include “Killing Eve,” and Saudi-set “Born A King,” co-produced recently released action triller “Kandahar,” starring Gerard Butler, which was also shot in the kingdom.
The budget on “Antara,” which is bound to be substantial, has not been disclosed. Production on “Antara” is scheduled to start in early 2024 and last for 12 weeks.
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