Egyptian cinema fans are abuzz with anticipation as acclaimed actor Karim Abdel Aziz is officially set to reprise his role in the third installment of the hugely successful Blue Elephant film series. The announcement, amplified by a public endorsement from Saudi entertainment chief Turki Al-Sheikh, marks a significant step toward the continuation of one of the Arab world’s most iconic psychological thrillers.
A photo shared on Al-Sheikh’s official Facebook page showing him with the film’s crew sparked widespread excitement across social media platforms. Alongside the image, Al-Sheikh commented, “The Blue Elephant will be fire,” confirming that production on the third part of the blockbuster franchise is formally underway.
Turki Al-Sheikh, head of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority, has increasingly invested in Arab cinema, aiming to elevate its global profile. In a recent interview with journalist Amr Adeeb, he spoke enthusiastically about the potential of The Blue Elephant 3, stating: “We seek to make The Blue Elephant go beyond its usual boundaries. This project is a profitable investment for all parties, and we anticipate that parts three and four will set a new global standard.”
Originally based on a novel by Ahmed Murad, The Blue Elephant became a breakout hit upon its 2014 release. Blending elements of psychological suspense, mystery, and drama, the story follows psychiatrist Yehia Rashed, played by Abdel Aziz, who returns to work at Abbasiya Hospital after a prolonged absence. He is soon tasked with evaluating the mental state of a criminal who shockingly turns out to be a former friend.
The film’s atmospheric tension, along with Abdel Aziz’s commanding performance, helped the franchise become a cultural phenomenon in Egypt and the wider Arab world. A sequel was released in 2019, achieving similar commercial and critical success.
Despite its popularity, The Blue Elephant series has not escaped controversy. Egyptian film historian Mahmoud Kassem previously pointed out parallels between the original film and the 2007 New Zealand thriller The Tattoo, noting some overlapping dramatic elements. Author Ahmed Murad acknowledged that while the book and film diverge in their endings, such changes were intentional to broaden audience appeal.
Now, with Al-Sheikh’s backing and global ambitions in play, expectations for The Blue Elephant 3 are soaring. Notably, Al-Sheikh has also hinted at financial and creative support for a fourth installment, suggesting a long-term vision for the franchise’s evolution.
The production is expected to blend high-quality storytelling with modern cinematic techniques, positioning it for both regional and international audiences. With Karim Abdel Aziz once again at the helm, and major backing from one of the region’s most influential entertainment figures, The Blue Elephant 3 promises to be one of the most eagerly awaited Arab film releases in years.
