MENA distributor Front Row Filmed Entertainment has secured the global distribution rights at Cannes Film Market for Image Nation Abu Dhabi’s Saudi- Emirati family comedy Al Eid Eiden, starring Saudi star Fahad Al-Butairi (Telfaz11’ Al-Khallat+, The Office, From A to B), Emirati Mira Al Midfa (The Monster) and Egyptian star Shadi Alfons (Malek Al Halba, Ramy).
The film is set for a wide theatrical release across the UAE, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the wider Gulf on July 4th, via Front Row Filmed Entertainment and Front Row Arabia, a joint venture between Front Row and leading homegrown Saudi Exhibitor Muvi Cinemas. Front Row will also be handling all post-theatrical rights.
Al Eid Eiden stands out as the first feature project with an all-female Emirati creative team behind it, led by first-time director Maitha Al Awadhi (Award-Winning short Nour) in her debut feature, producer Rawia Abdallah (Contact Line – Best script at DIFF 2017) and writer Sara Al Sayegh. The film was shot across Abu Dhabi including Yas Island Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s leading leisure and entertainment destination, including attractions such as Warner Bros. World™ Yas Island, The WB™ Abu Dhabi, the world’s first Warner Bros. themed hotel, and Yas Mall.
The film follows a Saudi-Emirati family as they make the final preparations for a Eid getaway in Abu Dhabi. An unexpected turn of events on their day of travel changes things drastically for the parents, but not wanting to disappoint their three young children, they decide to go ahead as planned. What ensues is a roller-coaster ride of comedic mishaps and misunderstandings as they hurtle through uncharted parenting territory, a theme park, and Eid gatherings with relatives. Through the chaos, they discover unity as a family.
Ben Ross, Acting CEO of Image Nation Abu Dhabi said: “Image Nation aims to nurture new talent and tell authentic Arab stories. To have this project led by three female Emirati creatives and depict a heartfelt story that will resonate with our region and beyond, Al Eid Eiden is a testimony to our ongoing efforts to develop our industry. Front Row is a fantastic partner for this project, and we look forward to the success of Al Eid Eiden’s release.”
Gianluca Chakra, CEO and Founder of Front Row Filmed Entertainment said: “We are delighted to be working with our partners at Image Nation on Al Eid Eiden. This will be the first of many collaborations and we can’t wait for audiences to watch the film in cinemas.”