In an exclusive interview, Saeid Ravanbakhsh, a Dubai-born and raised filmmaker, shares his journey, creative milestones, and the exciting news about his latest project—a Netflix series titled “The Sacred Eight.” Known for his award-winning works and a deep passion for storytelling, Saeid is now setting a benchmark for Dubai’s creative scene.
Interviewer: Saeid, you’ve built an impressive career as a filmmaker, and now you’re working on a script for Netflix. That’s extraordinary for someone born and raised in Dubai. Can you tell us about your journey?
Saeid Ravanbakhsh: Thank you! It’s been an incredible journey so far. I was born and raised in Dubai, a city that has always inspired me with its unique blend of tradition and innovation. I studied Marketing and Film Production at the American University of Sharjah, and this education has shaped my creative and strategic approach to filmmaking. Over the years, I’ve directed and produced films that have received both local and international recognition, each one pushing the boundaries of storytelling.
Interviewer: Can you share more about the films you’ve worked on and the awards you’ve received?
Saeid Ravanbakhsh: Absolutely. My portfolio includes several films I’m immensely proud of:
- “Delusion” (2016): This short film, which addresses the devastating effects of drug abuse, won the Special Award for Best Film and the People’s Choice Award at the 11th KAL Short Film Festival in Iran. It also received an award at the Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed Short Film Festival (CDA) in 2018.
- “Children Know Better” (2018): A touching drama that contrasts material wealth with emotional fulfillment through the lens of children. It won two awards at the Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed Short Film Festival (CDA) in Dubai.
- “Changeable Future” (2015): A thought-provoking short film about transformation and hope. It won Second Place in the Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed Short Film Festival (CDA).
- “Kashokhin”: A web series that gained international acclaim and was featured in numerous festivals for its compelling narrative and cinematography.
- “Who’s Zaid?”: Another award-winning short film recognized in the Sheikh Mansoor competition.
These projects allowed me to explore diverse storytelling styles and connect with audiences on a deeper level.
(Image: Saeid Ravanbakhsh, Receiving The Award for the best short film from H.H. Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammad Bin Rashed, at Mansoor Bin Mohammad Film Festival)
Interviewer: Now, you’re writing a script for Netflix. That’s a huge milestone! What can you tell us about this project?
Saeid Ravanbakhsh: The project is called “The Sacred Eight,” and it’s set in Dubai in the year 2050. The story is a psychological drama with a futuristic twist, exploring themes of morality, power, and human resilience in a world where Dubai has risen as one of the major players on the global stage.
At its heart, “The Sacred 8” is a gripping tale of power, morality, and discovery set against the futuristic and vibrant backdrop of Dubai. Saeed, a dual agent navigating two secretive factions—the White Group and the Black Group—unravels corruption within both as he seeks the truth about his mysterious lineage. Guided by his mother, Narjes, a scientist mastering time travel and teleportation, and aided by supernatural jinns, Saeed deciphers cryptic messages hidden in historical art and architecture. As ancient secrets come to light, Saeed realizes his destiny to transcend the flawed systems and forge a new path, redefining the balance between opposing forces in this dynamic, fast-paced city.
Interviewer: What’s the next step for “The Sacred Eight”? Will you be directing it as well?
Saeid Ravanbakhsh: I’m currently working on a pilot short version of the series, which I plan to direct myself. The pilot is crucial for setting the tone and visual style of the series. Directing it personally allows me to bring my vision to life and ensure the story’s emotional and cinematic impact is fully realized.
Interviewer: As someone who’s born and raised in Dubai, how does this project reflect on the city’s creative industry?
Saeid Ravanbakhsh: Dubai has always been a place where dreams are turned into reality, and its creative industry is no exception. With “The Sacred Eight,” I want to showcase the city’s potential as a global hub for storytelling and filmmaking. It’s a proud moment to represent Dubai and its growing influence on the world stage. I hope this project inspires other filmmakers from the region to aim high and tell their stories to the world.
Interviewer: That’s truly inspiring, Saeid. Any final thoughts or advice for aspiring filmmakers?
Saeid Ravanbakhsh: Stay committed to your craft and believe in the power of storytelling. Filmmaking is a challenging journey, but it’s also one of the most rewarding. Dubai is a city full of opportunities, and I’m confident it will continue to nurture and support creative talent in the years to come.
Saeid Ravanbakhsh’s journey from a filmmaker in Dubai to writing for Netflix is a testament to the city’s burgeoning creative talent. With “The Sacred Eight,” he aims to bring Dubai’s narrative to the forefront of global storytelling while setting new benchmarks for the region’s creative industry.
Saeid Ravanbakhsh’s IMDB Page: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm10976482/