Mohamed Diab’s Historical Epic Asad Set for Middle East Release Starring Mohamed Ramadan

Director Mohamed Diab is set for the wide Middle East release of his historical epic, Asad. Diab previously gained international attention at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival with the Islamic fundamentalism-themed thriller Clash and more recently helmed the Marvel Moon Knight miniseries.

The production toplines Arab megastar Mohamed Ramadan and British-Lebanese actress Razane Jammal. According to reporting from Variety on May 12, 2026, the film serves as a major regional project for Diab following his work with Marvel.

Cast and Background

Mohamed Ramadan, an actor and singer, plays the titular character in Asad. Ramadan is recognized as one of the largest stars in the Middle East and the Arab world. in 2025, he became the first artist from Egypt to perform at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival.

Co-starring alongside Ramadan is Razane Jammal, who broke out internationally through her role in the Netflix series The Sandman.

Narrative and Inspiration

The role of Asad is inspired by Spartacus, the rebel slave of Ancient Rome. The plot follows the character’s relationship with a free woman, portrayed by Jammal.

The narrative focuses on how the love between the two characters ignites a fierce confrontation between Asad and his masters.