New Directing Venture for Roel Reiné
Renowned director Roel Reiné, known for his work on Halo and Classified, has committed to directing the new psychological thriller titled The Rest Room. This film is set to begin production in Dubai and other locations across the UAE at the start of 2026.
Collaborative Scriptwriting Effort
The screenplay for The Rest Room is a collaborative effort between Emirati producer and writer Abdulhamid Ali and American writer Donnalyn Vojta.
Production and Casting Developments
Abdulhamid Ali will also serve as a producer through his Dubai-based company, Al Bait Al Aswad Art Production. Casting for the film is currently in progress, with plans to introduce the project at the Cannes Film Festival market.
Plot Details
The storyline of The Rest Room centers on seven individuals who find themselves locked in a mall restroom overnight. As tensions rise, a mysterious death occurs, pushing the group to reveal their hidden motives and confront their deepest secrets and potential for redemption.
Production Team
The film’s production team includes producers Paul Thompstone of Studio Atlantic, Adolf El Assal from the Abu Dhabi-based Edgy Media, and Stefan Milovic.
Executive Producers’ Statement
Ali, Thompstone, and El Assal expressed their excitement about collaborating with Roel Reiné, praising his extensive and versatile filmmaking experience, which includes large-scale sci-fi and intense thrillers. They believe that Reiné’s leadership and the talented team behind The Rest Room will create a compelling and memorable film.
Roel Reiné’s Filmmaking Journey
Reiné began his career in the Netherlands, gaining recognition with The Delivery, which earned him a Dutch Academy Award for Best Director. He has since directed a variety of films, such as Admiral, Redbad, Marvel’s Inhumans, and Wu Assassins. His recent project, Classified, stars notable actors Aaron Eckhart and Tim Roth. Reiné is represented by IAG and Echo Lake.
Upcoming Projects
Roel Reiné continues to be a sought-after director with upcoming projects including the survival thriller Savage Hunt, shot in Bulgaria, and American Smuggler, an action-drama featuring Dennis Haysbert, known for his roles in 24, Major League, and Far From Heaven.
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