Mad Solution is a dynamic conglomerate that spans several creative and business sectors, all aimed at elevating the entertainment industry. The company operates through distinct divisions, including Mad Celebrity, Mad Content, Mad Marketing, Mad Distribution, and Mad World. Mad World serves as the foundational entity within this ecosystem, leading groundbreaking initiatives in cinema and beyond.
In 2024, Mad World launched its operations in Cannes, with a hefty worldwide slate of exciting new Arab-language films. There are currently more than a dozen titles — some completed, others in various stages of production — that are entirely new to the international licensing marketplace. Among them are unexpected narratives from Egypt, Tunisia, Palestine, Morocco, Iraq, Syria, Qatar, UAE, and Saudi Arabia that between them span a multitude of storytelling tones and genres.
The Mad Celebrity division itself is diversified, encompassing three distinct categories:
- Mad Celebrity for established stars.
- Mad Rising for emerging talents.
- Mad Crew, dedicated to behind-the-scenes professionals.
Focus on Film Distribution
Mad Distribution focuses on promoting films across the Middle East. Notable works in their portfolio include “Agora” and “My Driver and I” and “Thank You for Banking with Us!“, which has been showcased at prestigious events like the British Film Institute (BFI).
Other celebrated films distributed by Mad Solution include “Ghost Trails“, and “Goodbye Julia“. The latter premiered at Cannes in 2023, earning critical acclaim and multiple awards.
Collaboration with Telfaz and Market Presence
Mad Solution has collaborated with Telfaz on several projects, although details remain under wraps for now. At the Red Sea Festival, Mad Solution’s presence was robust, showcasing its ability to attract key players and foster meaningful partnerships.
This year’s festival also highlighted fascinating projects in development. Moreover, Mad Solution continues to support emerging talents by partnering with the Arab Cinema Center. The center awards deserving producers, such as:
- A Saudi producer and an Arab producer, who will join the Rotterdam lab in 2025.
- A selected film to be distributed internationally and in the Middle East by Mad Solution.
The State of the Middle Eastern Film Ecosystem
The Middle Eastern film industry has evolved rapidly, with platforms like Netflix, Shahid, and OSN making it easier to promote and distribute regional films. Films such as “Goodbye Julia” have seen remarkable success, resonating with audiences in Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Dubai. Beyond feature films, Mad Solution is pioneering efforts to popularize short films, offering cinematic screenings to introduce audiences to this format.
Future Projects
Mad Solution is set to expand its portfolio with several upcoming projects, including:
- Aisha Can’t Fly Anymore, slated for release in 2025.
- Thank You for Banking with Us, which will debut at major festivals next year.
- Yunan, directed by Ameer Fakher Eldin and filmed in Greece.
These projects underline Mad Solution’s commitment to bringing innovative and culturally resonant stories to the global stage.
Conclusion
Mad Solution stands as a staple of creativity and innovation in the Middle Eastern entertainment industry. Through its multifaceted divisions and strategic collaborations, the company continues to redefine the possibilities for regional cinema, ensuring that its stories captivate audiences worldwide.
