Draft:THREE (2023)

"THREE" is a feature film directed by Nayla Al Khaja, who explores themes of grief, familial bonds, and cross-cultural beliefs within the drama, horror, and thriller genres. The narrative lens is uniquely shaped by the director's personal experiences and cultural background.

Plot
A young boy becomes influenced by djinns, prompting his mother to seek help from an unconventional source. A doctor, putting aside his Western perspective, initiates an intense ritual to rescue the possessed boy.

Film Inception and Funding
The concept and development of the film took shape over a decade before materializing into a concrete feature film script during the pandemic lockdown. In 2019, Nayla Al Khaja concluded the production of her short film "The Shadow," a crucial proof-of-concept that paved the way for her subsequent feature, "THREE." "The Shadow" gained recognition with three Best Horror Short awards across various film festivals and received six nominations in categories like Directing, Short Horror, and Cinematography, highlighting its excellence. It's worth noting that "The Shadow" and Nayla Al Khaja's other short film "Animal" are currently available on Netflix in specific territories.

"The Shadow" garnered attention from notable investors who were supportive of Nayla Al Khaja's vision for filmmaking. This financial backing not only indicated the film's potential but also provided essential support for realizing Nayla Al Khaja's creative vision in her subsequent feature film, "THREE."

Sultan Saeed Al Darmaki, Muna Easa Al Gurg, Rasik Thakker, Siddharth Thakker, Jefferson Hall, and Christian Peter were credited as executive producers for their notable contributions to the film's production.

Production
In 2023, Nayla Al Khaja accomplished a significant milestone by completing her debut drama, horror, and thriller feature film, "THREE." The film navigates the intricate tapestry of cultural narratives, exploring themes of grief, familial bonds, and cross-cultural beliefs. Drawing thematic inspiration from her earlier work, "The Shadow," the narrative revolves around Ahmed, a young boy possessed by djinns. As his mother, Maryam, seeks assistance from an unconventional figure, the storyline unfolds with a captivating blend of horror and intense drama, challenging Western perspectives to rescue her son through a profound ritual. The film features returning actors and familiar scenes, maintaining thematic continuity in exploring the Islamic ritual of exorcism.

"THREE" not only delves into the Islamic ritual of exorcism but also provides insights from the perspective of Dr. Mark Holly, portrayed by Jefferson Hall. Dr. Holly's character offers a scientific and medicinal outlook on themes such as loneliness, family ties, and divorce, adding depth to the film's narrative fabric.

The filming process spanned 19 days in Thailand and an additional 6 days in Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates, aiming to authentically capture the essence of the story and the cultural nuances portrayed in the film.

Premiere and Release
"THREE" had its red gala worldwide premiere at the 3rd edition of The Red Sea Film Festival, marking a significant moment for the film. The event provided a platform for the cinematic narrative to unfold before a global audience, garnering attention from cinephiles and industry professionals.

The film is slated for theatrical release on February 1, 2024, offering audiences in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region and select Middle East territories the opportunity to experience the cinematic journey through the immersive lens of VOX Cinemas.

Themes and Perspective
"THREE" delves into the Islamic ritual of exorcism, offering a multifaceted exploration that encompasses both supernatural and grounded perspectives. Dr. Mark Holly, portrayed by Jefferson Hall, plays a pivotal role in presenting these perspectives. The film not only delves into the spiritual dimensions but also incorporates scientific and medicinal aspects into the narrative.

Dr. Holly's character provides a unique viewpoint through which the film explores themes such as child psychology, loneliness, family ties, and divorce. This adds complexity and depth to the storytelling, offering viewers a comprehensive understanding of the cultural and psychological implications intertwined with the exorcism ritual. The film goes beyond traditional portrayals, using Dr. Holly's insights to bridge faith and science, creating a thought-provoking narrative with resonance on multiple levels. As the characters confront supernatural forces, the film prompts audiences to reflect on broader societal and interpersonal challenges.