We visit Ali F Mostafa on the set of his new feature film From A to B.
Updated: April 13, 2014, 12:00 AM
In pictures: On set as Ali Mostafa films A to B
The film is essentially a road movie following the exploits of a group of expat Arab friends who decide to take a road trip from Abu Dhabi to Beirut in honour of their dead friend who always wanted to make the trip. In true road-trip style, what should be a two-day trip at most stretches out to five days with plenty of drama and adventure along the way. Silvia Razgova / The National
The Saudi comedian Fahad Al Butairi, who stars in the film, is a YouTube and Twitter sensation with more than a million followers. Silvia Razgova / The National Reporter: Chris Newbould Section: Arts&Life Usage: undated
Michel Dierickx, director of photography talks with Mostafa. Silvia Razgova / The National
The nature of the film’s narrative means the crew will be shooting all across the region, though for obvious reasons the scenes crossing Syria will be shot elsewhere, alongside the Saudi ones. Silvia Razgova / The National
We have some great locations and the look of the film is phenomenal,” says Mostafa. “We have the modern style and the fantastic architecture in Abu Dhabi, then the remote areas, desert and dunes of Saudi, the ancient historical wonders of Jordan, war-torn Syria and, finally, urban Beirut. It’s visually stunning.” Silvia Razgova / The National
Chadi Alfons and Fadi Rifaai prepare for a scene. Silvia Razgova / The National
“It’s all about the character arc they go through due to events on the road,” says Mostafa. “The trip helps them as friends as well as people. It’s a comedy with a human story that’s also a drama, so a dramedy, kind of an Arab Sideways.” Silvia Razgova / The National
Emirati filmmaker Ali Mostafa talks with Mohamed Al Mubarak, Chairman of Image Nation, and Noura Al Kaabi, Chief Executive Officer of twofour54 and a member of the UAE's Federal National Council as they visit on the set of Ali Mostafa. Silvia Razgova / The National
Emirati filmmaker Ali Mostafa works with the crew and actors. Silvia Razgova / The National