The Arab movie poster

The Arab

January 31, 2026 1h 46m

Released in January 2026. The Arab is a drama film. directed by Malek Bensmaïl.

Starring Hiam Abbass, Dali Benssalah, and Nabil Asli

Synopsis

Haroun is an old bachelor who has lived in Oran for several years. A retired civil servant, he leads a reclusive life until the day he meets Kamel in a bar—a journalist to whom he tells an incredible story dating back to 1942. He claims to be the brother of ‘the Arab’ killed in a story told in one of the most famous novels of the 20th century, ‘The Stranger’ by Albert Camus. An Arab with an erased name: Moussa. Through anger, assertions, details, and confidences, Haroun finally convinces the journalist to listen to his story. His confession is a cry of freedom and distress—but above all, a cry of revolt: against an abusive mother, against a country that failed to achieve true independence, against a book, and against a famous French writer.

Quick Facts

📅
Release Date January 31, 2026 Coming soon
⏱️
Runtime 1h 46m 106 minutes total
🌍
Language AR Original language
🎬
Country Algeria + 4 more

Production Details

Status
In Production
Original Language
AR

Production Companies

  • Hikayet Films
  • Archipel 33>35
  • Need Productions
  • Tita Productions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Arab about?

Haroun is an old bachelor who has lived in Oran for several years. A retired civil servant, he leads a reclusive life until the day he meets Kamel in a bar—a journalist to whom he tells an incred...

Who directed The Arab?

The Arab was directed by Malek Bensmaïl.

How long is The Arab?

The Arab has a runtime of 1 hours and 46 minutes (106 minutes total).

When was The Arab released?

The Arab was released on January 31, 2026 in theaters.

Who are the main actors in The Arab?

The main cast of The Arab includes Hiam Abbass, Dali Benssalah, Nabil Asli, Amina Ben Ismaïl, Raphaël Thiéry.