The Saudi Arabian film 'Desert Warrior,' a production intended to be a landmark in the country's film industry, has become an box office disappointment, grossing just $733,000 against its substantial $150 million budget. The film, which stars Marvel Cinematic Universe actor Anthony Mackie, is now available on Hulu.
Filming for 'Desert Warrior' began in 2021 under the direction of Rupert Wyatt, known for 'Rise of the Planet of the Apes.' The production experienced delays, with Wyatt reportedly leaving and later returning to the project. The film also features performances from Aiysha Hart and a cameo by Ben Kingsley.
The movie's plot is set 1,500 years ago in Arabia, where Emperor Kisra, played by Kingsley, has overthrown the land and enslaved the daughters of former kings. Anthony Mackie stars as a bandit who encounters Princess Hind (Hart) and her father, King Numan (Ghassan Massoud), who are fleeing Kisra's forces. A local tribe offers them shelter but banishes the bandit due to his disreputable status. The narrative follows Hind's efforts to unite with the bandit and rally neighboring tribes to rebel against Kisra.
Critics have noted that while the film boasts impressive visuals, including large-scale battle sequences with real horses and camels set against the Arabian desert, its narrative and dialogue fall short. The screenplay has been described as convoluted and unclear about its intended genre, shifting between an epic saga and a more focused rebellion story. The feminist undertones of a female-led rebellion against a despot who enslaves women are also considered underdeveloped.
Performances have also drawn criticism, with Mackie and Kingsley described as giving 'paycheck performances.' Sharlto Copley, who plays the warrior Jalabzeen, is cited as the film's only memorable element, despite a one-dimensional character. The film's ambition to be an old-school epic with modern editing flourishes is undercut by a weak script and uninspired cast, leading to a muted emotional impact.
'Desert Warrior' was intended to be a major release and a cornerstone for Saudi Arabia's burgeoning film industry. However, its significant budget, troubled production, and subsequent box office performance indicate a major setback for these aspirations. The film's critical reception has been largely negative, with reviews suggesting the making-of story might be more compelling than the final product.