Saudi $150M Desert Warrior Premieres Zurich Film Festival

The highly anticipated Saudi Arabian film 'Desert Warrior,' starring Anthony Mackie, Ben Kingsley, and Aiysha Hart, is set to premiere at the 21st Zurich Film Festival on September 28, 2025. Directed by Rupert Wyatt, the $150 million historical action epic was filmed in 2021 around the futuristic city of NEOM and is notable as Saudi Arabia's first Hollywood-style feature fully shot in the country. The film is set in 7th-century pre-Islamic Arabia and follows Princess Hind, who defies the ruthless Emperor Kisra and unites feuding tribes with the help of a mysterious bandit. Its production faced delays due to creative conflicts, including Wyatt’s temporary removal and reinstatement, as well as reshoots and recuts. Produced by Saudi-owned MBC Studios, in collaboration with U.S. producers, the film is supported by the Saudi Film Commission's cash rebate and the Quality of Life program, underscoring Saudi Arabia’s ambition to develop a global film industry. The Zurich Film Festival will also honor U.S. director Noah Baumbach with an award and showcase his new film, 'Jay Kelly.'