Rabet
Spring Grants 2023 - Development Stage
Aya Al Blouchi, Basel Owies / TV Series / Qatar, Tunisia, Jordan, Sudan, United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon / 42 min / Original Language: Arabic / Interests: Thriller, Crime
Synopsis
‘Rabet’ (Ties) is a unique anthology series that transcends cultural stereotypes to present eight distinct crime stories, each unfolding against the backdrop of a different Middle Eastern and North African region country. From the bustling streets of vibrant cities to the hauntingly beautiful landscapes, each episode crafts a unique narrative that delves into existential ironies along with the paradoxes of morality and justice. The eight episodes are tied together by inescapable feelings of panic, thrilling tension, unexpected alliances, betrayals, and ethical conundrums, all exploring the darkest and most sinister elements of the inexorable human condition. ‘Rabet’ is not just a crime anthology—it is a visual and emotional odyssey that invites audiences to contemplate the universal complexities of moral ambiguity and existentialism.
Credits
- Director
- Basel Owies
- Screenwriter
- Basel Owies
- Producer
- Aya Al Blouchi, Basel Owies,
About the Director
Introduced to the world of cinema by her father at a young age, Aya Al Blouchi honed her passion for film within the realm of film festivals. As a film programmer, her exposure to a multitude of films allowed her to develop a profound appreciation for the craft and detailed intricacies of filmmaking. In 2015, Aya founded Seat26 Productions, a Lebanon-based production company aiming to support aspiring filmmakers and emerging talents from the Arab region. Committed to fostering a sustainable film industry in the MENA region and beyond, Aya took a significant step in 2018 by establishing The Map Projects, a European-based incubator designed to bring together artists specialising in various interdisciplinary mediums. This collaborative space allows creatives to work together across regional divides, aids in enhancing their craft through training initiatives, and promotes film literacy between the communities. Currently, Aya Al Blouchi is involved in multiple co-production and finance ventures. Her foray into serialised narrative content begins with ‘Rabet’ and showcases her dedication to exploring creative boundaries that contribute to the global cinematic landscape. As a leader in her field, Aya continues to shape the future of the film industry through her passion for storytelling, along with her commitment to innovation and collaboration.
Basel Owies, currently serving as Senior Producer at the Doha Film Institute, is a seasoned professional with a diverse background in film and television production. Since joining the Doha Film Institute in 2017, Basel has been instrumental in supporting the Institute’s mission of nurturing emerging talent, mainly through the Qatari Film Fund (QFF)—a core initiative of the Institute. QFF takes an active role in investing in the development and success of local talent, supporting the development and
production of up to eight short films and four feature films annually. Since its inception in 2015, QFF has propelled the development of a vibrant community of
dedicated and talented local filmmakers who are now making their mark on the global stage. Prior to DFI, Basel’s passion for contemporary culture, technology,
and art led him to pursue an MFA in Directing and Film Production from the distinguished Chapman University
in California. During his time in Los Angeles, he honed his skills across a multitude of mediums, including film, TV,
commercials, music videos, and branded content. Basel’s multifaceted career in the film and television industry reflects his commitment to cultural storytelling and
expertise in producing authentically driven and narratively compelling projects