This summer, Saudi Arabia's significance in the world of cinema will be underscored as filming for a new Hollywood blockbuster is set to commence this July.

Arab Fund for Arts and Culture & Netflix

This move further solidifies the Kingdom as a key player in the global film industry.

With filming of 'Motor City' set to begin in July, this marks the beginning of the groundbreaking partnership between Film AlUla and Stampede Ventures, a prominent Hollywood-based production company, as they embark on their first film of a ten-movie deal.

Filming is scheduled to commence on July 10 in both New Jersey and in various location in Saudi Arabia, including AlUla.

About Motor City

Motor City will be directed by Potsy Ponciroli, and will chronicle the journey of John Miller, an auto-worker whose life takes a drastic turn when he is framed by a local gangster, resulting in the loss of both his livelihood and his girlfriend. Upon his release from prison, Miller embarks on a quest for retribution against those who orchestrated his downfall, all the while striving to reclaim his lost love. Set against the backdrop of Detroit (with glimpses of AlUla, for those in the know) the film promises to deliver an immersive cinematic experience, featuring impressive and expertly choreographed action sequences.

The Motor City cast features Alan Ritchson (to play John Miller), Shailene Woodley (as Miller's girlfriend), Ben Foster (to be the feared gangster), and Pablo Schreiber.

Ritchson is known by audiences for his role as the military trained homicide investigator, Jack Reacher in the self-named series, whilst Woodley's role alongside Reese Witherspoon in the cult-classic show Big Little Lies has kept viewers wanting more since its ending.

The Agreement

Agreed in October 2023, the partnership promises to elevate AlUla's film and creative industry, as Film AlUla, the Royal Commission for AlUla's film agency, has joined forces with global media production company Stampede Ventures. Originally a three film deal was signed, however this has since been extended to ten features, the agreement will have a substantial impact on furthering AlUla's aspirations to become a global filmmaking hub.

In October, it was estimated that the partnership was worth an estimated $350 million.

The deal will encompass the development, filming and creation of ten international productions over the next three years in the AlUla region, in partnership with AlUla Film. Rebates and other incentives are included in the agreement, aligning with the goals of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030.

Stampede Ventures led by the renowned founder, film producer and creative, Greg Silverman. Silverman is also a film executive with Warner Bros. and is well-known in the industry for his exceptional track record in the entertainment industry, including blockbuster hits like The Hangover, Inception and The Dark Knight for example.

Film AlUla

Saudi Film Scene — *Image via IG filmalula*

Since its creation in 2020, Film AlUla has played a formative and central role in various productions, spanning from movies and TV series to documentaries, establishing itself as a pivotal entity in Saudi Arabia's film industry evolution.

As phase one of its top-tier production facility nears completion, the region emerges as a prime global hub for film production. By prioritising the cultivation of local talent through mentorship initiatives and skills enhancement programs, AlUla stands as a beacon of creativity and cultural advancement in the cinematic domain.

@filmalula @stampedeventures