Yasser Al-Yasiri to Al-Nahar: Horror Films Have Yet to Be Explored in Our Region
Director Yasser Al-Yasiri is preparing to deliver a new and distinct cinematic experience in the realm of Arab horror and thriller cinema with his upcoming film “Possessed,” scheduled for theatrical release in 2026. The project marks a new directorial milestone for Al-Yasiri, as he navigates the worlds of psychological and supernatural horror. The film is written by author Salah Al-Juhaini, directed by Yasser Al-Yasiri, and produced jointly by Mohamed Nassar and Salah Al-Juhaini.
The cast features a group of talented young actors, including Omar Razeg, Yasmina Al-Abd, Youssef Raafat, Abdulrahman Mohamed, and Tara Aboud, alongside appearances by several prominent cinema stars in guest roles. The production team announced the completion of filming in Egypt after a continuous five-week shoot, officially moving the film into its final post-production stages, including editing, visual effects, and sound design, in preparation for determining its final release date in targeted Arab and international markets.
“Possessed” unfolds within a dramatic framework built on escalating tension and mystery, pitting a generation of young people against enigmatic events that surpass their ability to understand or control, thereby exploring the human struggle in the face of unexplained phenomena.
In a special statement to “Al-Nahar,” director Yasser Al-Yasiri affirmed that the project represents both a passion and a new cinematic challenge for him. He stated, “‘Possessed’ represents a different challenge for me, particularly because horror cinema remains a genre that has not been sufficiently explored in our Arab region. I had a previous experience in this world through the film ‘122,’ which brought me together with writer Salah Al-Juhaini and focused on psychological horror. Today, after nearly ten years, I believe that the taste of the Arab audience has evolved and become more open to this genre, alongside the significant advancements in the capabilities and technologies available to filmmakers.”
Al-Yasiri further explained his motivations for undertaking this experience: “In recent years, we have witnessed a notable global presence of horror films, both in terms of audience interest and diversity in storytelling and directing approaches. These indicators give us, as creators, greater enthusiasm and confidence to take on this adventure.”
Concluding his remarks on his transition between cinematic worlds, Al-Yasiri said, “After my last film, ‘Houjan,’ I wanted to move into a new cinematic space; I am always seeking renewal. I hope the film reaches the hearts of the Arab audience, and most importantly, that it contributes, even by a small step, to elevating Arab horror cinema to a different status, and that we witness more ambitious and diverse experiences in the future.”
