21 opiniones
This is a captivating movie that skillfully weaves together a compelling narrative, powerful performances, and stunning cinematography. The well-developed characters and thought-provoking storyline make it a must-watch, showcasing the talent and creativity emerging from the Saudi film industry. The movie reflects a cinematic renaissance within the film industry in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with Saudi directors and actors emerging strongly onto the artistic and cultural scene. I hope to see more cinematic productions like this in the coming period. The number of films in the artistic scene is still limited, but the ambitious aspirations persist.
- Metoo92
- 13 dic 2023
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I was waiting for this movie to drop and it didn't disappoint!
Firstly I can't get over how good the acting is! Especially from the mc as a kid who grew up on YouTube and these guys's videos i was shocked to my core of how good AlDokhi acts especially in that scene were he was terrified bc he was being chased and so his eyes show clear terror and fear while he's laughing uncontrollably, that scene was the best.
The cinematography is so beautiful, the choice of colors to represent each scene and the emotions that goes through it, how you can find beauty in every scene no matter how unpleasing the place is. My personal favorites in terms of cinematography were the scene in the elevator with the mc and the antagonist and the one in that rich guy's apartment when the fireworks went off behind him.
The plot is nothing new we've seen it in Taxi Driver and such but this film gives it an indie touch with the view of a saudi environment that i find interesting.
The characters are all like typical moving characters for the plot but the mc is amazing and i love how they show how fu**ed up he was from the beginning still some people missed that! But he just needed a push to get it all out... and i love how realistically unhinged he is, and an excellent portrayal from AlDokhi.
The writing could use a little work as you can tell some scenes are elongated to fit the duration conditions of a featured movie, but personally i had no issues with it as it showed it from the following a character's life perspective but some thought it was boring to them but personally i fairly enjoyed this movie!
Firstly I can't get over how good the acting is! Especially from the mc as a kid who grew up on YouTube and these guys's videos i was shocked to my core of how good AlDokhi acts especially in that scene were he was terrified bc he was being chased and so his eyes show clear terror and fear while he's laughing uncontrollably, that scene was the best.
The cinematography is so beautiful, the choice of colors to represent each scene and the emotions that goes through it, how you can find beauty in every scene no matter how unpleasing the place is. My personal favorites in terms of cinematography were the scene in the elevator with the mc and the antagonist and the one in that rich guy's apartment when the fireworks went off behind him.
The plot is nothing new we've seen it in Taxi Driver and such but this film gives it an indie touch with the view of a saudi environment that i find interesting.
The characters are all like typical moving characters for the plot but the mc is amazing and i love how they show how fu**ed up he was from the beginning still some people missed that! But he just needed a push to get it all out... and i love how realistically unhinged he is, and an excellent portrayal from AlDokhi.
The writing could use a little work as you can tell some scenes are elongated to fit the duration conditions of a featured movie, but personally i had no issues with it as it showed it from the following a character's life perspective but some thought it was boring to them but personally i fairly enjoyed this movie!
- SourMalik
- 9 mar 2024
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Taxi Driver meets Nightcrawler on the incessantly rainy streets of Riyadh?!....who would've thought!
A novel glimpse into the gig-economy and colliding worlds of a modern-day Saudi Arabia, told through the eyes of an unhinged delivery driver, selling bootlegged alcohol to fulfil his patriarchal duties as family caretaker.
Lead actor delivers a compelling performance and cinematographer does very well to capture the tension and frenzy of most scenes; a respectable effort from a nascent Saudi movie industry waking up from a 35 year slumber.
That said, director was seemingly overcome by the duration of a feature film, and many peripheral scenes or moments were overly drawn out. The script too was heavily lacking in depth, character development and authenticity. This exacerbated an erratic and seemingly random build-up and dissipation of tension throughout the movie, culminating in a disappointing ending. To make things worse, the subtitling felt like the work of an impubescent first-timer who cared more about flaunting his familiarity with American pie-esque profanity and bro culture, than delfty translating the original Arabic script - apparently an 82 year old History Professor jokes with his son and asks "do you even lift bro?" or in another scene, a cousin tells the lead actor to "calm his tits" when the original script had virtually nothing to do with that in meaning or context. Hard to see this beyond what it is: a publicity stunt showcasing a more "western" Saudi grappling with its "modernity".
A novel glimpse into the gig-economy and colliding worlds of a modern-day Saudi Arabia, told through the eyes of an unhinged delivery driver, selling bootlegged alcohol to fulfil his patriarchal duties as family caretaker.
Lead actor delivers a compelling performance and cinematographer does very well to capture the tension and frenzy of most scenes; a respectable effort from a nascent Saudi movie industry waking up from a 35 year slumber.
That said, director was seemingly overcome by the duration of a feature film, and many peripheral scenes or moments were overly drawn out. The script too was heavily lacking in depth, character development and authenticity. This exacerbated an erratic and seemingly random build-up and dissipation of tension throughout the movie, culminating in a disappointing ending. To make things worse, the subtitling felt like the work of an impubescent first-timer who cared more about flaunting his familiarity with American pie-esque profanity and bro culture, than delfty translating the original Arabic script - apparently an 82 year old History Professor jokes with his son and asks "do you even lift bro?" or in another scene, a cousin tells the lead actor to "calm his tits" when the original script had virtually nothing to do with that in meaning or context. Hard to see this beyond what it is: a publicity stunt showcasing a more "western" Saudi grappling with its "modernity".
- Ba7ebElCima
- 4 sep 2024
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Mndoob alil directed by ali alkaltham
Frist of all the Cinematography is fabulous and amazing it's take you to another dimension and make your eyes stick to the screen until the end
The main ideas took a lot from taxi driver but not in a cheap way for me it's better than (taxi driver)
The vibes are very similar to (the joker 2019) and also (taxi driver) and Mohamed aldokhi did a really fine job in the leading role
I'm glad to see this film comes from Saudi Arabia make sure you watch it if you have chance i'm sure you will enjoy it and love it, at least you will never regret watching it xx.
Frist of all the Cinematography is fabulous and amazing it's take you to another dimension and make your eyes stick to the screen until the end
The main ideas took a lot from taxi driver but not in a cheap way for me it's better than (taxi driver)
The vibes are very similar to (the joker 2019) and also (taxi driver) and Mohamed aldokhi did a really fine job in the leading role
I'm glad to see this film comes from Saudi Arabia make sure you watch it if you have chance i'm sure you will enjoy it and love it, at least you will never regret watching it xx.
- abuda7m5
- 14 dic 2023
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Mandoob alleil is a Saudi movie directed by Ali Al kalthami , I watched it on theater , first of all, Great directing, and great performance by the star actor Mohammed Al dokhei, from the first. Minute of this movie you'll feel like it kinda looks like taxi driver but with some changing , I like it a lot, not boring at all and it's the best Saudi movie I've seen so far , I have seen Satar and some other Saudi movies but this movie feels like an American movie from the 70s , as a big fan of American movies, mandoob alleil is the only Arabic movie that feels like a true movie with no bad messages,
A MUST SEEN.
A MUST SEEN.
- nasersayegh
- 14 dic 2023
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"Mandoob" offers a compelling narrative set, skillfully intertwining themes of desperation and opportunity. The film's strength lies in its portrayal of Fahad Algadaani, a mentally fragile protagonist racing against time to rescue his ailing father. The director adeptly captures the pulse of the city, creating a palpable sense of urgency. However, certain plot elements could have been explored more deeply, leaving room for a richer emotional connection with the characters, and the script is poor with no strong dialogues which left the viewer overthinking about every details which may lead to negative effect on the movie. Furthermore the ending was straight forward with no tension or buildup leaving the audience in shock of how its ended in the peak of the story!
Despite this, "Mandoob" succeeds in delivering a gripping tale that sheds light on the complexities of familial bonds in the face of adversity.
Despite this, "Mandoob" succeeds in delivering a gripping tale that sheds light on the complexities of familial bonds in the face of adversity.
- Faisal_KK
- 13 dic 2023
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This movie directed by ali which is a saudi actor+director
i've never seen his directing work but after this movie i will definitely follow him, the way he moved from a scene to anoother and shooting in the dark and gives us the best scenes possible it's hard but he managed to do it perfectly, the rain and the roads, every scene was shooted perfectly however i have a note which is, in action scenes with the music we're thrilled and excited, then the scene will be moved immediately to a chilling scene
the acting staff is amazing, fahad-sara-maha-and the alcahol gang, everyone acting is so professional
I'll see it again definitely and congratulation everyone on this great work, proud of this saudi movie 🙏
i've never seen his directing work but after this movie i will definitely follow him, the way he moved from a scene to anoother and shooting in the dark and gives us the best scenes possible it's hard but he managed to do it perfectly, the rain and the roads, every scene was shooted perfectly however i have a note which is, in action scenes with the music we're thrilled and excited, then the scene will be moved immediately to a chilling scene
the acting staff is amazing, fahad-sara-maha-and the alcahol gang, everyone acting is so professional
I'll see it again definitely and congratulation everyone on this great work, proud of this saudi movie 🙏
- halessa
- 12 dic 2023
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BRUH! The acting? *chef's kiss* AlDokhi absolutely SLAYED! Like, imagine a YouTuber transforming into this INCREDIBLE actor who can make you laugh and terrified AT THE SAME TIME?! That chase scene? I literally can't even- MY JAW IS STILL ON THE FLOOR!
And can we talk about these VISUALS?! HONEY, THE CINEMATOGRAPHY IS SERVING LOOKS! That elevator scene? ICONIC! And don't even get me started on those fireworks moments - it's like they took pretty and made it PRETTIER!
Sure, the plot might be giving us some Taxi Driver vibes, but make it Saudi and make it FRESH! It's like they took the classic recipe and added their special sauce - AND I'M HERE FOR IT!
Our main character? WHEW! Unhinged from the start but make it fashion! Some people missed the red flags but honey, they were having a PARADE! AlDokhi understood the assignment and DELIVERED IT WITH EXPRESS SHIPPING!
Ok, yes, some scenes were stretched like my patience waiting for pizza delivery, but you know what? I WAS LIVING FOR IT! While some found it boring (bless their hearts), I was eating up every second like it was the last slice of cake!
And about that Riyadh perspective - WERK! Even with its little quirks and that straight-to-the-point ending that hit like a surprise party gone wrong, this movie had me SHOOK in the best way possible!
And can we talk about these VISUALS?! HONEY, THE CINEMATOGRAPHY IS SERVING LOOKS! That elevator scene? ICONIC! And don't even get me started on those fireworks moments - it's like they took pretty and made it PRETTIER!
Sure, the plot might be giving us some Taxi Driver vibes, but make it Saudi and make it FRESH! It's like they took the classic recipe and added their special sauce - AND I'M HERE FOR IT!
Our main character? WHEW! Unhinged from the start but make it fashion! Some people missed the red flags but honey, they were having a PARADE! AlDokhi understood the assignment and DELIVERED IT WITH EXPRESS SHIPPING!
Ok, yes, some scenes were stretched like my patience waiting for pizza delivery, but you know what? I WAS LIVING FOR IT! While some found it boring (bless their hearts), I was eating up every second like it was the last slice of cake!
And about that Riyadh perspective - WERK! Even with its little quirks and that straight-to-the-point ending that hit like a surprise party gone wrong, this movie had me SHOOK in the best way possible!
- sanadalsalt
- 19 abr 2025
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Story narrative is the greatest yet of all Saudi movies, and some of Hollywood's as well.
A great story shows how far will a person go when they suffer. The risks they'll take, the troubles they'll get into, and how they'll get out of it. An underdog individual, how feels stuck in a society that he doesn't fit into.
The story is the highlight of the movie. Yet not to forget mentioning the great directing, the amazing soundtracks, coloring, performances, locations.
Mohammed Aldokhei's performance was remarkable, I was stunned to see what he was able to deliver!
It's definitely a must watch movie. Seeing it in theaters absolutely gave it another dimension.
A great story shows how far will a person go when they suffer. The risks they'll take, the troubles they'll get into, and how they'll get out of it. An underdog individual, how feels stuck in a society that he doesn't fit into.
The story is the highlight of the movie. Yet not to forget mentioning the great directing, the amazing soundtracks, coloring, performances, locations.
Mohammed Aldokhei's performance was remarkable, I was stunned to see what he was able to deliver!
It's definitely a must watch movie. Seeing it in theaters absolutely gave it another dimension.
- yo-ofy
- 14 dic 2023
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This is the first Saudi Arabian movie i watch. It's better than i expected and in the future, i intend to watch more. A good psychological drama thriller, in the veins of "Uncut gems". Similarities are not that strong, i mean, this is not that intense and anxiety-inducing, but in both of those movies, the leading(Morally gray) character is caught in a web made (partially) of his own greed and desperation, and every passing second, things get tougher.
Greatest quality of this movie is acting : Everyone -and especially Mohamad Aldokhei- did a very good job. I also liked the complexity of the characters, they were so well written, they felt real. It's a clever movie overall, i didn't understand some things from the start even though i realize they were obvious, in retrospect. There are no amazing twists but still, there were many interesting turns.
I can't rate it higher because there were some pace problems. It should have been 15 minutes shorter in order for this movie to be more exciting. I like slow paced films but this is not some artistic drama : Above all, it's a drama/thriller. It never got boring but there were some unnecessary scenes. It should have been "tighter".
Cinematography was nice.
Greatest quality of this movie is acting : Everyone -and especially Mohamad Aldokhei- did a very good job. I also liked the complexity of the characters, they were so well written, they felt real. It's a clever movie overall, i didn't understand some things from the start even though i realize they were obvious, in retrospect. There are no amazing twists but still, there were many interesting turns.
I can't rate it higher because there were some pace problems. It should have been 15 minutes shorter in order for this movie to be more exciting. I like slow paced films but this is not some artistic drama : Above all, it's a drama/thriller. It never got boring but there were some unnecessary scenes. It should have been "tighter".
Cinematography was nice.
- athanasiosze
- 11 mar 2025
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- diablomask
- 29 dic 2024
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Movie tagline says "Dark unberbelly of Riyad"- Lol, really?
Central character is going through life troubles and gets caught with the mafia and illegal substances.
The good: Director, actor & cinematography are nice.
The bad: With Cocaine & Hashish available everywhere, the illegal drug of choice for underworld was Black Label Whisky 😂 The mafia is so lame, didnt even carry a knife or a gun, really?!
And the forced storyline of showing Sheikh as some generous medical treatment giving messiah to random citizens. Its Saudi propaganda at its lamest.
Writer and filmmakers are probably highly restricted to show Riyadh in a certain propaganda light, and it shows in the film.
Central character is going through life troubles and gets caught with the mafia and illegal substances.
The good: Director, actor & cinematography are nice.
The bad: With Cocaine & Hashish available everywhere, the illegal drug of choice for underworld was Black Label Whisky 😂 The mafia is so lame, didnt even carry a knife or a gun, really?!
And the forced storyline of showing Sheikh as some generous medical treatment giving messiah to random citizens. Its Saudi propaganda at its lamest.
Writer and filmmakers are probably highly restricted to show Riyadh in a certain propaganda light, and it shows in the film.
- shaunjames-52496
- 18 may 2025
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This movie take you on a journey with man who we know nothing about to someone with face,name, and a package and we want him to win or "I wanted him to win ", a lot of ups and down , i loved the cinematography A LOTS , the plot is complete you understand why our guy went this far, l loved the foreshadowing of using the light to tell us a massage,however, there's a lot of missed opportunities and some scenes that needed more tension so the audiences can be more engaged and feel the threat he's facing , overall I loved the movie and I recommend it specially that's Ali first movie l salute him there's no scene with no purpose l can feel the attention and care through the whole movie bravo 👏
- shathaa_
- 26 ene 2024
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- Slemp-173-752668
- 15 dic 2023
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Ali Kalthami's directorial debut "Mandoob" (Night Courier) offers a captivating glimpse into the underbelly of Saudi Arabia's nightlife, a world rarely seen on screen. The film follows Fahad, a call center agent who resorts to working as a food delivery-app courier to make ends meet. Faced with mounting medical bills for his ailing father and the pressure to succeed, Fahad turns to more illicit means to survive.
Kalthami's portrayal of the marginalized in Saudi society is both heartbreaking and refreshing. The film brings attention to the struggles of those living on the fringes, far removed from the glamour and wealth often associated with the Kingdom. "Mandoob" is a character study that sheds light on the harsh realities faced by many Saudis, including limited job opportunities and the challenges of upward mobility.
While the film's pacing and genre may falter at times, Mohammed Aldokhi's performance as Fahad is the glue that holds the narrative together. Aldokhi brings a raw vulnerability to the character, making Fahad's plight all the more compelling. Despite its flaws, "Mandoob" is a bold and important film that gives voice to the voiceless in one of the world's most conservative nations.
Kalthami's portrayal of the marginalized in Saudi society is both heartbreaking and refreshing. The film brings attention to the struggles of those living on the fringes, far removed from the glamour and wealth often associated with the Kingdom. "Mandoob" is a character study that sheds light on the harsh realities faced by many Saudis, including limited job opportunities and the challenges of upward mobility.
While the film's pacing and genre may falter at times, Mohammed Aldokhi's performance as Fahad is the glue that holds the narrative together. Aldokhi brings a raw vulnerability to the character, making Fahad's plight all the more compelling. Despite its flaws, "Mandoob" is a bold and important film that gives voice to the voiceless in one of the world's most conservative nations.
- panta-4
- 12 feb 2025
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- osamaig-62078
- 5 ene 2024
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- alshymfhd
- 29 dic 2023
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Ali Al-Kalthami, thank you for this work. I swear to God, I love it. I specialize in cinema and theatre, and when I saw the work, I was more excited to continue with it. Ali Al-Kalthami, thank you for this work. I swear to God, I love it. I specialize in cinema and theatre, and when I saw the work, I was more excited to continue with it. Ali Al-Kalthami, thank you for this work. I swear to God, I love it. I specialize in cinema and theatre, and when I saw the work, I was more excited to continue with it. Ali Al-Kalthami, thank you for this work. I swear to God, I love it. I specialize in cinema and theatre, and when I saw the work, I was more excited to continue with it.
- abode-69044
- 15 dic 2023
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It is a vibrant and heartwarming tale set in the bustling city of Riyadh. Directed with a personal touch, the film tells the uplifting story of Fahad Algadaani, a delivery driver, and his spirited journey to save his father. The narrative beautifully captures the dynamic spirit of Riyadh, portraying the city's diverse culture and rapid growth through Fahad's eyes. The cinematography is a feast for the senses, showcasing Riyadh's rich contrasts from lively streets to serene neighborhoods. Filled with a blend of humor and earnestness, "MandooB" is a delightful and inspiring watch that leaves you with a smile and an appreciation for life's small victories. A must-see for its heart, humor, and genuine portrayal of a city in bloom.
- naif-70845
- 3 ene 2024
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Ali Al-kalthami is the best all Respect to him. Acting great directing great cinematography so beautiful and in this movie I saw best pictures of Riyadh the most beautiful city in the world and the characters good places good i love fahadi saw myself in him and I really loved the ending. I love every single scene in this film and I understand fahad and his psychological and I like green color in this movie it's feels real and more iconic in my opinion and the knight all the time it's feels creepy it's the main character (fahad) to be more psycho and weird and I like how he love his family so much.
- rotntometo
- 31 dic 2023
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"Mandoob" stands out as a remarkable cinematic gem, truly capturing the essence of Saudi culture with its authentic representation and compelling narrative. From start to finish, the story is meticulously crafted, seamlessly woven with no loose ends or gaps-each scene purposefully contributing to a complete and satisfying tapestry.
The acting is nothing short of stellar, delivering performances that are incredibly convincing, ensuring that the characters resonate with the audience on a profound level. The portrayals are so natural and immersive that they transport viewers directly into the heart of the unfolding drama, offering a window into the lives and struggles depicted with unwavering honesty.
Beyond the powerful performances, "Mandoob" should be lauded for its exceptional cinematography. Each frame is composed with purpose, not only to enhance the beauty of the visuals but also to reinforce the narrative's emotional depth. The dynamic use of camera angles and lighting adds layers to the storytelling, creating a visual feast that complements the movie's thematic core.
The filmmakers' dedication to realism doesn't shy away from showing the intricate realities of life in Saudi Arabia. This honest approach provides an invaluable perspective to international audiences, serving ss a captivating entertainment.
The acting is nothing short of stellar, delivering performances that are incredibly convincing, ensuring that the characters resonate with the audience on a profound level. The portrayals are so natural and immersive that they transport viewers directly into the heart of the unfolding drama, offering a window into the lives and struggles depicted with unwavering honesty.
Beyond the powerful performances, "Mandoob" should be lauded for its exceptional cinematography. Each frame is composed with purpose, not only to enhance the beauty of the visuals but also to reinforce the narrative's emotional depth. The dynamic use of camera angles and lighting adds layers to the storytelling, creating a visual feast that complements the movie's thematic core.
The filmmakers' dedication to realism doesn't shy away from showing the intricate realities of life in Saudi Arabia. This honest approach provides an invaluable perspective to international audiences, serving ss a captivating entertainment.
- hadeel1md
- 7 mar 2024
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