Saudi actress, writer, and filmmaker Sarah Taibah is set to take on her boldest role yet in the upcoming horror film Hoba (The Vile). Directed by Majid Al-Ansari, the Emirati production promises suspense, drama, and supernatural thrills.
Taibah, known for her versatility, said the project allowed her to break free from typecasting. “I’ve always been cast in roles similar to my real self,” she shared. “This time, I play Zahra, a manipulative second wife with a dark presence. It’s the most challenging character I’ve ever played.”
A Story of Fear and Mystery
Hoba follows Amani, played by Bdoor Mohammed, whose peaceful family life unravels when her husband brings home Zahra as his second wife. A sinister force soon begins to haunt the household, blurring the line between reality and the supernatural.
Most of the horror film unfolds in one location, creating a tense and confined atmosphere. “It’s just you and your psychological fears,” Taibah explained. “Ninety-nine percent of the film happens indoors, so it feels very personal.”
A New Wave of Arab Cinema
For Taibah, the film also highlights the rise of genre cinema in the Middle East. She previously co-wrote Hwjn, a fantasy romance between a djinn and a human. “Audiences are hungry for new genres,” she said. “It’s time to move beyond drama and comedy into horror, fantasy, and magical realism.”
She praised director Majid Al-Ansari’s vision, noting his love for Korean horror as inspiration. “I believe Hoba will deliver a complete experience — strong cinematography, a talented cast, and a story that pushes boundaries.”
The filmmakers plan to release the movie at the end of October.
