Terry George’s Riverman will begin filming in NEOM.
Lights, camera, NEOM. Terry George, the Academy Award-winning screenwriter and director of Hotel Rwanda, is set to embark on an exciting new project. But that’s not even the best part. His upcoming film, Riverman, will be shot in the picturesque landscapes of NEOM – Saudi Arabia’s ambitious mega-business and tourism project.
Inspired by the events of the war in Afghanistan between 2001 and 2008, Riverman follows the story of Max, a highly decorated US Royal Marine. After enduring a series of devastating events in Afghanistan, Max finds himself entangled in a world even more treacherous than the battlefield itself. Disillusioned with the politics of war, he is lured into the murky realm of private arms dealers, supplying weapons to private armies across the globe. Max becomes entangled with a company that possesses the power to manipulate wars and sway the outcomes of global conflicts. In a high-stakes game where trust is a luxury, Max must navigate the dangerous landscape of arms dealing, where even his extensive training can’t prepare him for the risks involved.
Casting for the film has already begun and principal photography is scheduled to commence in January 2024. NEOM, with its state-of-the-art facilities and production support, will play a crucial role in bringing the film to life. The project’s sound stages, talent and crews will contribute to the seamless production of this thrilling action feature.
NEOM has rapidly emerged as a favoured destination for filmmakers in recent years. With over 30 productions already utilising its diverse locations and top-notch facilities, it has solidified its position as a leading hub for film and TV production. Films such as Desert Warrior, directed by Rupert Wyatt and starring Anthony Mackie and Sir Ben Kingsley, and Dunki, helmed by Rajkumar Hirani and featuring Shah Rukh Khan, have showcased the beauty and versatility of NEOM’s landscapes. Additionally, the region’s largest-ever budget TV show, Rise of The Witches, has found a home in NEOM too.
NEOM also offers an attractive production cash rebate incentive of over 40 per cent showcasing its commitment to fostering a vibrant film industry. This has been further demonstrated by the announcement of the NEOM Media Village and Bajdah Desert Studios, the Kingdom’s premier sound stages and film production support facilities.
GO: Visit www.neom.com for more information.
