Nayla Al Khaja, widely dubbed as the first female filmmaker in the United Arab Emirates and two-time Academy Award-winning music director A.R. Rahman (Slumdog Millionaire, 127 Hours) came together at the 75th Cannes Film Festival to discuss Al Khaja’s highly anticipated upcoming feature film Baab.
The two industry-renowned figures sat down with international journalists to discuss the thrilling mystery, that is set to begin shooting in March 2023 in Ras Al Khaimah, in the United Arab Emirates, and touched upon Al Khaja’s vision for the project, but also how Rahman became attached as well as some exciting details on the production. The film is slated to be produced by Elly Senger-Weiss and Sultan Al Darmaki, with Muna Easa Al Gurg set to executive produce.
Director Nayla Al Khaja, said: “I am delighted to be in Cannes with A.R. Rahman to start to introduce the industry to this authentic, thought-provoking film we are working towards and the vision we have for showcasing the incredible region of Ras Al Khaimah. We are very much looking forward to starting production on the project next year and returning to Cannes when it is complete!”
Al Khaja's past projects have included the documentary Unveiling Dubai, the narrative short The Neighbour and the autobiographical short Animal. Baab will be her first feature film.
All photos © Ammar Abd Rabbo and used with permission.
