Djinn

Directed by prominent horror specialist, Tobe Hooper, Djinn tells a gripping tale of supernatural defiance set against the culturally rich backdrop of the United Arab Emirates. Released in 2013, the movie stars Razane Jammal, Khalid Laith, and Aiysha Hart in pivotal roles. This unique cinematic experiment explores a particular aspect of traditional Emirati lore, the mystical beings of Islamic mythology known as "djinn".

Razane Jammal plays the role of Salama, a young Emirati woman who, along with her husband, Khalid (played by Khalid Laith), returns to the UAE after living in the United States. Their decision to start a new life in their motherland leads them to move into a high-rise luxury apartment in the heart of UAE. The couple expects the skyscraper, a beacon of modernity set amid the timeless desert landscape, to provide a peaceful, rejuvenating haven, and indeed, it initially appears to be a promising canvas for their shared future.

However, the seemingly serene silence of the building is gradually replaced by a set of inexplicable, eerie occurrences that unsettle the couple. Their once welcoming abode starts to feel increasingly foreboding and inhabited by a menacing presence. A string of strange occurrences makes them suspect that their residence may be tormented by something more than natural forces.

Salama and Khalid find themselves enveloped in a disturbing mix of ancient folktales and modern urban existence. As they dig deeper into the building's history and the local lore, they uncover ties to the region's ancient legends of djinn. The couple's lives become a blend of grim reality and horrifying mythical elements. Their attempt to demystify the ominous disturbances leads them deeper into the mystical twist of the supernatural world, and they soon realize that their struggle is not just with their puzzling predicament but a face-off with a centuries-old curse.

Razane Jammal magnificently performs a character that traverses joy, curiosity, suspicion, intense fear, and ultimate courage. Her portrayal of Salama's metamorphosis from a happy, ambitious woman to a distressed soul grappling with inexplicable experiences depicts the true depth of her talent. Khalid Laith adds the necessary vulnerability and determination to his character, displaying a fine balance of emotional subtlety and grandeur as he discovers the truth about their abode. The onscreen chemistry between the leads successfully evokes the audience's empathy, making them root for the couple as they battle the unseen.

Supporting character Aiysha Hart adds another layer of complexity and intrigue to the story, introducing key elements that propel the plot forward. Her performance deepens the narrative's mysterious allure while adding an element of human vulnerability. Hart's character subtly bridges the gap between the human realm and the mythical, increasing the stakes for the protagonist.

Acclaimed director, Tobe Hooper skillfully integrates the horror genre within the UAE's social and cultural framework. He enthralls viewers with startling and suspenseful cinematography, vividly capturing both the sprawling urban landscapes of the UAE and the intimate, claustrophobic spaces of the haunted modern building. Each frame is symbolic, as it blends the past and present, tradition and modernity, folklore and urban stories, all while maintaining the tension and suspense that a supernatural thriller demands.

The haunting score by BC Smith significantly adds to the movie's suspense. Coupled with the eerily brilliant cinematography, the soundtrack effectively creates an atmosphere of imminent doom and suspense, playing on viewers' fear and anticipation.

Djinn is a fascinating blend of culture-rich folklore and modern-day fears. It is an inviting portrayal of traditional Emirati lore with a contemporary twist, compelling you to explore the enthralling story of Salama and Khalid as they struggle against powerful, ancient forces in a world where the supernatural coexists with the mundane. The movie ingeniously paints the exploration of an unknown, terrifying world within the confines of a familiar urban setting. Djinn symbolizes the struggle between the rational and the inexplicable, the human and the supernatural, the ancient myths and today's realities — a compelling movie experience that leaves the audience shivering yet wanting more.