Mahdi Ahmed

Scripting waves of imagination from the sunny side of the Maldives.

Posts tagged ‘Family Drama’

A STORY THAT WOULDN’T LEAVE ALONE

Some scripts you wrestle into shape. Others… they quietly unravel you while you’re trying to write them.

This one was different from the very beginning.

It arrived as a spec script from a brilliant writer/director, with a strong central idea — but instead of tracing the original lines, I found myself slowly dismantling it, piece by piece, and rebuilding it into something far more internal. Far more unsettling. And far more… me.

The journey wasn’t straightforward. In fact, I don’t think I’ve ever rewritten the third act of a screenplay so many times in my life — not because it didn’t work, but because I kept uncovering deeper truths the characters were hiding. Especially the protagonist. He wasn’t just grieving. He was living in the ghost of what he lost.

What began as a psychological drama soon evolved into something deeper — a layered family story about what holds people together even when they drift apart. At its heart, this became a film about how much a family needs each other to stay afloat — even when one of them has emotionally disappeared.

This is a story about presence, absence, memory, and guilt — but not in the ways we usually tell them. Every character carries a wound. Some show it. Some bury it. Some don’t even know it’s there until it explodes into the room. The screenplay flirts with silence, leans into hallucination, and plays with emotional withholding in ways that made me both uncomfortable and strangely fulfilled.

At its core, it’s an exploration of how grief, when unprocessed, can become a kind of architecture — building rooms we live in, long after we should have left. I was fascinated by the idea of a man who hasn’t just lost his mother… but one who hasn’t let her go. That subtle difference shaped everything.

And let’s not forget the child in the story — quietly drawing her emotions in her art book. That subplot, in particular, shook me. Sometimes children say more in silence than adults ever do in monologues.

Now that it’s wrapped — and I mean really wrapped — I feel both emptied and enriched. Like I’ve said goodbye to someone I never really met… but somehow knew intimately.

This script didn’t come easy. But it came honestly. And I think that’s what makes this one special.

The title is still under wraps for now — but the screenplay is ready. And when it finds its audience, I hope it sits with them quietly… the same way it sat with me.

I can’t wait for you to meet it.

More soon.

ROBOMAN: THE MOVIE: VISION OF KANDI

Ibrahim Wisan, popular in the filmdom as Kandi, is a name that has become synonymous with drama and visual storytelling in Dhivehi cinema. Known for his work as an old-school cinematographer, Kandi has always had a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the visual language of film. With Roboman: The Movie, Kandi takes his career to new heights, marking his first venture into the family film genre and adding another remarkable chapter to his already illustrious career.

Before stepping into the director’s chair, Kandi was widely recognized for his exceptional work behind the camera. As a cinematographer, he contributed to many critically acclaimed projects, known for his ability to capture the perfect shot, evoke emotion, and enhance the narrative through his visual style. His technical prowess and creative vision were evident from the start, making him a sought-after name in the industry.

However, Kandi’s talents were not limited to cinematography alone. His passion for storytelling soon led him to explore the world of direction. His first foray into directing was with a children’s short film, Pink Fairy that charmed audiences with its innocence and imagination. The short film showcased his ability to connect with younger viewers, bringing out the pure and magical essence of childhood through his lens. This marked the beginning of his journey as a director—a journey that would soon take him to new heights.

Roboman: The Movie represents a significant leap for Kandi, as it is his first feature-length film in the family genre. This project allowed him to blend his skills as a cinematographer with his directorial vision, creating a movie that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant. Kandi’s transition from shorts to feature films showcases his versatility and willingness to explore new genres, pushing the boundaries of his craft.

With Roboman: The Movie, Kandi has ventured into the family genre, a space that requires a delicate balance of humor, emotion, and drama. The film tells the story of two young cousins, Ahu and Asee, who navigate the highs and lows of friendship, rivalry, and dreams as they compete in the Robo Junior Challenge. It’s a narrative that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking, filled with moments of joy, tension, and redemption.

What sets Roboman: The Movie apart is Kandi’s ability to bring a fresh perspective to the family film genre. His background in cinematography is evident in the film’s visual language. Each frame is carefully composed to convey the story’s emotional beats, from the vibrant and energetic dance sequences to the more intimate, character-driven moments. Kandi’s dynamic direction, coupled with fluid camerawork and stunning visual effects by Mohamed Saami, creates a cinematic experience that is both entertaining and visually captivating.

Kandi’s direction also brings out the best in his cast, particularly the newcomers, Amelia and Misha, who play Ahu and Asee. Their chemistry and performances add a layer of authenticity and relatability to the film, making the story resonate with audiences of all ages.

Roboman: The Movie marks a new chapter in Kandi’s career, highlighting his growth as a filmmaker and his ability to handle a full-length feature in a genre he had not previously explored. His dedication to creating a film that appeals to both children and adults shows his commitment to expanding the horizons of Dhivehi cinema. Kandi’s approach to directing this film is not just about entertainment; it’s about telling a story that speaks to the hearts of its viewers, encouraging them to dream, to support each other, and to confront challenges with courage.

Kandi’s journey from cinematographer to director has been marked by bold choices, a relentless pursuit of excellence, and a deep understanding of the art of filmmaking. Roboman: The Movie is not just another film on his resume—it’s a statement of his growth, his vision, and his passion for storytelling.

Roboman: The Movie is set to hit cinemas on 26th September 2024. Stay tuned for more updates and keep an eye on Kandi’s ever-evolving journey as one of the Maldives’ most promising directors.