5 Arabic Horror Films That Should Be On Your Radar This Halloween
With spooky season in full swing discover the region’s contribution to the Horror Genre
Arabic cinema persists as something that we at Harper’s Bazaar Arabia celebrate whenever we can. Usually associated with the comedy and romance genres, we tempt you to delve into Arab horror is spooky season.
The Arab horror genre draws inspiration from rich folklore, ancient myths, and Islamic traditions, weaving tales of jinn, spirits, and curses; finding its impetus in the shadows of Arabian nights, blending cultural heritage with supernatural elements, creating a chilling tapestry of fear rooted in centuries-old beliefs and mysteries.
So, pop your popcorn in the microwave and get ready for the Arabic horror film line-up we’ve curated to get you in the Halloween spirit.
5 Arabic Horror Films That Should Be On Your Radar This Halloween
The Cello
This adaptation of the celebrated Saudi poet and novelist, Turki Alasjikh’s work, vividly portrays the tale of a cellist whose dedication to his craft transforms into a perilous obsession, unveiling the chilling repercussions of infatuation. Directed by Darren Bousman, renowned for his work on the “Saw” franchise, featuring the esteemed Academy Award winner Jeremy Irons, the film promises to delve deep into the haunting abyss of artistic passion gone awry.A spine-chilling showstopper on the international stage, this Saudi production marks a groundbreaking milestone as the first of its kind, deeply rooted in the region. Shot entirely on location in Al Ula, it seamlessly blends local authenticity with global intrigue, promising a truly immersive cinematic experience.
Djin
The Djinn movie strikes terror close to home in the Emirates, immersing viewers in a spine-chilling narrative rooted in Arabian folklore. Familiar landscapes and cultural nuances intensify the fear, evoking a chilling story where ancient legends are projected onto the modern desert skyline. Djinn’s story surrounds an Emirati couple whose new house has been built above supernatural land. Lines of reality are blurred, and sleepless nights are had.
Kandisha
This French-Moroccan film is about the famous jinn figure, Kandisha, that’s popular amongst Maghreb legend. Childhood friends Amélie, Bintou, and Morjana playfully invoke the spirit of Kandisha, a vengeful Moroccan spirit, on one fated Summer evening. But this harmless game turns into a nightmare as loved ones begin vanish. Summoning Kandisha sets forth a curse that they must break in order to survive.
Anyab
Fans familiar with The Rocky Horror Picture Show would be fascinated to discover its Egyptian counterpart, Anyab. This 1981 horror musical retains the essence of the original while immersing viewers in a uniquely Egyptian experience. The film carves out its distinct narrative path, offering a fresh perspective and enriching the tale with its distinctive blend of cultural elements and vibrant dance sequences. Perfectly 80’s.
Al-Ins Wal Jinn
“Al-Ins Wal Jinn,” or “El Eens We El Gen” in Egyptian dialect, features legendary actors Adel Imam, Ezzat Al-Alayli, and our september cover star, Yousra. The story delves into a dark realm where a Jinn, disguised as a human, maliciously manipulates those around him. This gripping narrative explores the intricate interplay between the supernatural and human existence, captivating audiences with its intense storytelling and stellar performances.
This article was originally published on October 31st, 2019 by Sara AlHumiri. It was updated and republished on October 9th, 2023 by Rania Abdulla.