Muscat – A unique movie project – R Factor – that aims to showcase seven compelling stories inspired by the culture, lifestyle and diversity of Oman and bring together over 200 Omani talents in various capacities is set to take place in January. The anthology will feature 100 Omani actors, capturing stories that range from football and fishermen to youth, music and cultural identity.

R Factor is an initiative of Arabwood by a group dedicated to creating, developing and establishing a thriving film industry in Oman in collaboration with Oman Film Society (OFS). Practical Productions will combine a ‘learn and shoot with masters’ programme to R Factor making it the first-ever live shooting and training experience of its kind in Oman.

Preparations for R Factor commenced with an acting course and audition preparation led by Jijoy Rajagopal, professor of cinematic acting at Film and Television Institute of India, Pune and Director of KR Narayanan Film Institute, Kerala. The training took place last week for four days from where selected participants will be cast in the seven films.

“I believe that we are witnessing the rise of a new wave in the Arab film industry, and it is originating right here in Oman. Arabwood is at the forefront of this movement, and I am delighted to extend my full support and collaboration to their ventures. Together, we can nurture talent, build bridges and create stories that resonate globally,” Rajagopal said.

The auditions aimed to cast 35 characters in the seven films with two of these featuring child leads. Over 50 talented Omani children participated, impressing the judges with their remarkable performances. 

The anthology includes The Two Kids, Table 5, Laylatul Qadr, Symphony, A Piece of Sky, The Journey to Planet X and Blue Tick.

Sudha Sha, organiser of the initiative said, “This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity will allow aspiring filmmakers and actors from Oman to work alongside renowned industry professionals. Esteemed filmmakers Chandan Arora, Ashima Chebbar, Vineeth Kumar, Zakariya Mohammed, Nilanjana Sha and Antonio Rui Rubairo from the UK, and celebrated cinematographers Nimish Ravi, Prakash Kutty and Hari Nair will lend their expertise to this venture. National Award-winning art director Santosh Raman, make-up artist NG Roshan and sound designer Arun Rama Varma Thampuran will provide specialised training, while acclaimed filmmaker Mahesh Narayan will mentor and groom technicians.”

Omani filmmaker Muzna al Musafir will lead the project alongside Sudha and OFS team leader Dr Jinan al Eisa.

Sudha said, “This anthology is more than just a film project. Arabwood invites Omani filmmakers and talents to register for this golden opportunity and contribute to this historic venture.”