Sony, Miramax, Neon and Qatar.
Qatar is not just investing in local media but attracting top-tier U.S. studios to develop and create new content centred around Arabic stories with help financing and global distribution.
Three US studio have struck deals:
Sony Pictures International and Qatar Film Committee have a multi-year deal to create original projects and/or adaptations from Sony’s existing IP, with production coming from the MENA region.
Miramax, partially owned by Paramount Global and the Qatar-owned beIN, is partnering with Qatar Film Committee to co-develop “premium” films using the studio’s current library:
The first project is an Arabic language reimagining of the Josh Cusack and Kate Beckinsale-led Serendipity (2001)
Potentially a Confessions of a Dangerous Mind (2002) reboot series. This was a Miramax film starring George Clooney and Sam Rockwell
Neon has signed off on a four-year Memorandum of Understanding with the Qatar Film Committee to co-develop, co-finance, and distribute a slate of 6-10 feature films and shorts.
The first project under the deal is Caesar, tells the real life story of a Syrian military officer
Qatar has launched a new Screen Production Incentive (QSPI) offering up to 50% cash rebate on qualifying production spent in Qatar.
Base Rebate = 40%
An additional 10% will go to productions that “hire Qatari talent, invest in local training, and promote Qatari culture.”
This new incentive is part of Qatar’s goal to become a production hub for the “Global South Countries”, attracting international studios and building sustainable local film infrastructure.