Mena Massoud Shines in New Biblical Drama 'DANIEL' After Aladdin Fame
Mena Massoud to Star in 'DANIEL'
Unveil Studios has officially announced that Mena Massoud, celebrated for his role in Disney's live-action adaptation of Aladdin, will lead in an upcoming biblical drama titled DANIEL. The film is set to begin shooting this fall in India, aiming for a theatrical release in 2026.
Massoud garnered international recognition for his portrayal of Aladdin, contributing to a box office success that surpassed $1 billion worldwide. He received a nomination for Best Actor at the National Film and TV Awards and won the Breakthrough Talent honor at the GQ Men of the Year Awards.
A Story of Faith and Courage
DANIEL explores the incredible journey of the biblical prophet whose unwavering faith and courage stand against immense challenges. The narrative follows Daniel from his humble beginnings as an exile to his eventual role as a chief royal advisor. The film has been described as a grand cinematic interpretation of one of history's most compelling tales of resilience and spiritual fortitude.
“The character of Daniel represents a timeless narrative of conviction and strength under duress. We are thrilled that Mena will bring this powerful role to life,” remarked the film's co-directors, The Kooman Brothers. They are known for their thoughtful storytelling in indie cinema, having previously directed inspirational films like Breath Of Life and She Has A Name.
Massoud's Journey to Stardom
Born in Egypt, Massoud emigrated to Canada at a young age with his family. His rise to fame with Aladdin is not just a tale of talent but also speaks to his role as cultural ambassador through initiatives such as Egypt's Speak Egyptian campaign by the Ministry of Migration. Massoud's diverse background allows him to resonate with audiences globally, adding depth to his portrayals.
The project is produced in collaboration with veteran producer Travis Mann, known for acclaimed films like I Can Only Imagine, and partnered with Collide Productions. This partnership aims to craft a film that is not only entertaining but also rich in its biblical messages.
Anticipation for Release
As filming gears up in India, audiences are eagerly awaiting what Massoud brings to the screen in DANIEL. This film promises to be more than just a retelling of a biblical tale; it’s expected to inspire and provoke thought on faith and character under pressure.
With the backing of Unveil Studios and a passionate creative team, DANIEL is anticipated to touch hearts and spark conversations when it hits theaters in 2026.