A bold new chapter in avant-garde filmmaking arrives in the UAE, where art, identity, and rebirth meet on screen.
SHARJAH, UAE: International actor Wardal strengthens his place among the leading figures of contemporary avant-garde cinema with the announcement that Al-Maza (“Diamond”) will be featured at the 17th Sharjah Biennial, running from January 21 to 24, 2027, in the United Arab Emirates.
A Creative Partnership Reaches New Heights
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sherif El-Azma, Al-Maza is the third collaboration between the two artists. It places Wardal within the aesthetic and conceptual lineage of cinematic masters such as Federico Fellini, Billy Wilder, and Carlo Lizzani.
This time, the project goes further. El-Azma steps in front of the camera himself, blurring the traditional line between director and actor. The result is an exploration of artistic identity in its purest form.
The Perfect Stage: “What Remains, Sits Restive”
The Biennial is organized by the Sharjah Art Foundation under the curatorial theme “What Remains, Sits Restive,”led by Angela Harutyunyan and Paula Nascimento. The theme suits a work so concerned with transformation and rebirth.
Symbolism with Depth
One of the film’s key symbolic elements is the book L’Amore nascosto (“Hidden Love”) by renowned Italian psychologist Maria Malucelli. The reference opens a profound reflection on personal freedom and the search for inner truth, themes that speak powerfully to younger generations.
A Moment of Global Momentum
The premiere comes at a time of significant international recognition for Wardal, whose recent journey has been honored with the LA Tribune Film Award and acclaimed at Brazil’s prestigious Gramado Film Festival.
With Al-Maza, the El-Azma and Wardal duo offers an experience that goes beyond conventional storytelling, turning the cinematic act into a living manifesto of freedom and perpetual evolution.
Event Details
- Film: Al-Maza (“Diamond”)
- Director: Sherif El-Azma
- Starring: Wardal, with Sherif El-Azma
- Event: 17th Sharjah Biennial
- Dates: January 21–24, 2027
- Location: Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Organizer: Sharjah Art Foundation
