Mahdi Ahmed

In the world of cinema, sound design plays an often underappreciated yet vital role in shaping the viewer’s experience. It’s not just about what we see on screen, but also what we hear—every subtle sound, every piece of dialogue, every ambient noise that brings a scene to life. In Kamanaa, the sound design, crafted by the talented Mohamed Faisal (Fai), is nothing short of groundbreaking, especially for Dhivehi cinema.

Fai took on the challenge of creating something truly unique for Kamanaa. His goal was clear: to elevate the sound design of Dhivehi films to new heights. With the recent installation of the 5.1 surround sound system at Olympus Theatre, Fai saw an opportunity not just to meet the industry standard but to surpass it, delivering an auditory experience that would leave audiences in awe.

Understanding the emotional gravity of Kamanaa, Fai meticulously crafted the soundscape to enhance every moment of the film, immersing the audience in the world of the characters and making every scene more vivid and impactful. Whether it’s the tense silence before a confrontation or the heart-wrenching sobs that echo through the halls, Fai’s sound design ensures that the audience feels every emotion as deeply as the characters do.

What sets Fai apart is his ability to innovate while remaining true to the story’s essence. He didn’t just aim to create sound for the sake of it; he wanted the sound to be a character in itself—one that interacts with the audience, drawing them into the narrative on a deeper level. His work on Kamanaa isn’t just an accompaniment to the visuals; it’s an integral part of the storytelling.

Fai’s dedication to bringing something of high quality to Dhivehi films is evident in every decibel of Kamanaa. He understands that sound is not just heard but felt, and he has used this understanding to craft an auditory experience that complements the raw and gritty visuals of the film.

As Kamanaa prepares for its release on 27 August 2024, audiences can look forward to a film that not only tells a powerful story but also immerses them in a world where sound and emotion are intricately woven together, thanks to Fai’s visionary work.