Prince of Persia announced
This morning’s Variety has an article announcing PRINCE OF PERSIA: THE SANDS OF TIME, a feature film I’m executive producing. It’s an adaptation of the bestselling videogame created by Jordan Mechner. The project is set up with Jerry Bruckheimer and Disney. Technically, the deal isn’t finished yet, but it’s close enough to being real that the trades picked it up.
Jordan and I have been working together for the past three months to come up with the movie’s storyline, and spent a week pitching it to various studios. What’s unusual about the deal — for me, at least — is that I won’t be writing the script. Rather, Jordan will write it, and I’ll be supervising, helping him out as much as possible. Jordan will be an executive producer, along with Chad Oman and Mike Stenson.
Like the videogame, the story is set at the edges of the Persian Empire during the 9th century. We follow an adventurous young prince — the black sheep of his family — who uncovers a dangerous artifact in a remote mountain kingdom. With the help of an enemy princess, he must stop a despot from unleashing a sandstorm that could destroy all mankind.
Those who’ve played the videogame will recognize many elements, although the underlying plot of the movie is quite a bit different. Neither Jordan or I wanted to directly translate the game to screen, a la RESIDENT EVIL. Rather, the goal is to make something like PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN, swashbuckling and exciting in an entirely new world.
I’ll add updates over the next few months.
Articles
March 6th, 2004 at 1:06 pm
Calling the movie Resident Evil, a direct translation of game to screen couldn’t be farther from the truth. It had little do with the actual events in the games after the inclusion of the Umbrella Corporation and the zombies the similarities stopped. It almost seemed as if it was written as a movie on its own and then later on it was adapted to be a Resident Evil script.
It’s great to hear that the actual creator of the series is going to be involved with the movie and not the usual bunch of people just trying to cash in on the sucess. Prince Of Persia:Sands Of Time, was a great game that I really enjoyed playing although I felt the story wasn’t the strongest point of the game(which is probably why it is being rewritten and it’s justly so). The long fights with seemingly endless enemys, the geniusly created puzzles, and the brillant utilization of the dagger were what really made the game stand out in my mind.
Anyways Good luck.
March 10th, 2004 at 3:19 pm
O have to agree with J.B. on the Resident Evil point. In fact, if they would have stuck to the game concept, it would have been a better film, instead it was slicked up, PTA horse crap (and that’s really giving horses a bad name). Pirates was an incredible movie, due to the great cast and great writing, and great timing. Pirate movies were pretty much sharing locker space with Davey Jones (not the Monkee), and it was really just one of those things that worked out well. However that venture didn’t do so well with Disney’s other ride or rather walk, The Haunted Mansion. I think the only concern that I would have are the associations that Prince of Persia (beautiful game) would have to The Mummy. Due to the Sandstorm menace and all powerful menacing egyptian priest/wizard. Not to mention Hidalgo’s cute little sandstorm trist (I mean the desert has more menacing attributes, ask anyone in Iraq, or Ray Harryhausen). And even mummy had trouble getting out of Indy’s shadow. I do believe that the prince does need that ’sand humor’, that humor that every character based in the desert seems to have (from Aladdin to well the Mummy) And that sword rocks. I think if the story is more about him, just the way POTC was about Jack Sparrow, I think the film would definately be groovy. Good luck and congrats though John. Can’t wait to see it.
April 6th, 2004 at 12:57 pm
I’m absolutely stunned to hear that the ”PRINCE OF PERSIA” is up for future film production. Its so cool……, cause for one thing I am Persian! and another point is that I have played and completed the game. I cannot make false criticisms about the game, as it was great (I also believe that the game tried to maintain a 1st person movie style theme similar to that of the ‘Matrix’ and ‘James-Bond’ games).
HOWEVER, one minor issue, which it does lack, is FACT! In previous games it has portrayed the Persians as ‘Arabs’ and when playing the computer game I noticed Arabic inscriptions. Although Persia is neighbouring Arab countries, as does Turkey, Greece, Italy and Spain it is vital that the producers of the film should not make these errors, as they will face immense criticism.
The Aryan race migrated to the land of the Aryans where is now Persia (IRAN), from the north of Europe and were split into three significant tribes. One major large tribe was known as the ‘Parthians’ /PERSIANS that grew vastly, later with the ruling of Cyrus the Great, the first Emperor known in world history. Just to conclude and not to bore you guys too much we are INDO-EOROPEANs where as IRAQ, SYRIA and SAUDI ARABIA are from the African race.
Many thanks and all the best!!
AMIEROS
April 6th, 2004 at 2:26 pm
Amieros,
Glad you’re a fan of the game. Obviously, the movie version of Persia will take some liberties with historical fact. (For instance, people in those days could not run up walls.) I think the best analogy is comparing King Arthur’s Camelot to historical England — it’s the same place, but with a mythological sheen.
Overall, I think you’ll be happy with how we’re portraying the area and its people. Our film is set at the northeastern edge of the Persian empire, on the boundaries of what we’d now consider the Middle East, Eastern Europe and Central Asia. The mixture of these cultures and environments within a 9th Century context should be fascinating.
Everyone will be speaking English, however. It’s a movie.
June 17th, 2004 at 4:42 pm
That setting will be very interesting indeed, so I take it that the movie will be filmed somewhere in Northeastern Iran or Tajikestan?
July 15th, 2004 at 4:30 pm
Its nice to see that persia (Iran) is coming in to lime light for different reasons, But what a shame that it has to be based on 9th century.
We persian must be proud of our history and our history dose not start from the 9th century but well before that.
I only wish that the film production could think about doing a real story about what the Perisan Empire, not about a computer game.
The people in the world as well as the Iranian need to be reminded of their own IDENTITY, which has been forgoten since the Arab invation and with the present situation in the country.
A great actor said once “If we don’t remmber our history how can we go forward”. Tom Hanks
there is much to be said about this subject but I hope the view of the persian’s can be heard.
Ardelon
September 24th, 2004 at 3:59 pm
You think this movie can be used politically to help create opistion to the Iranian government by showing the glory of the Persian Empire that the ayatollahs try to erase from peoples memorey because of their oposition to the manarchy.. I mean think about it I’m sure this will get boot legged out to Iranians all over the world, A movie like this can be made to remind all Iranians of what they had and motivate am internal regime change. LOL or even better if its made well enough you can play with the ayatollahs emotions and make them give up. hahahah Any ways I hope this movie shows a lot of historical truth about Persia , Hardly anyone, and I’m even talking about persians them selves have no clue of the power and might this empire had. It’s like blocked from history just cause it wasn’t a western empire. It’s still a part of human history, the worlds history, it has darastically affected every religion, I mean so much things are derived from Persians and we dont even know, from the basic concepts of heven and hell, to religion it self, I’m sorry but the Jewish people are not the oldest religion in the world. They just keep forgeting to add the oldest monotheistic relegion but Zorastrians are older by far even though there “almost” extinct. The father of these Great Religions, Abarham came from the Persian regions. Persians released the and saved the Jews from slavery , Persians created chess LoL Persians, played a huge role of not all in the creation of civilization itself. Persians this Persians that I can go on much longer. AND PERSIANS ARE NOT ARABBSSSS. But I have nothing against them. real arabs r good pple, Any wayz i dont mind a bit of mystic majic in the film but dont make it gay with flying carpets n shit, Truth is better. Oh yah i hope you play some crazy persian beets and with those women singing noises in the background u know what i mean middle eastern shit. And i Hope u pick a verrrrry sexy Indian girl cause that will definitly intise me to go watch it. I love the idea of the Prince being a bad boy, im sick of seeing “GOOD” princes. Gooooooood LUckkkkkkkkk Class dismissed
September 24th, 2004 at 4:12 pm
Wow, I can’t wait to see this film. As a history teacher I was always fascinated with Persia. It’s so mysterious ,it’s like a super power that never exsisted . No one knows about it. Finally something new. I can’t wait. Very good Idea I’m looking forward though I have never seen or played the game, I hope its not fake or anything like that.
September 24th, 2004 at 4:12 pm
Wickkeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeedddddddddddddddddddddddd
September 24th, 2004 at 4:15 pm
we are all from the same class and we are from Canada , York University, Were antiipating this. Oh and i agree with yeahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh ,wicked
To jake ” u r a fob hahahahha LOL”
October 19th, 2004 at 6:50 pm
remember we are not arabs, no offense to them. I really hope this movie shows PERSIANS when they conquered all of what is now Arabian. If this movie is good Ill watch it enough times just cuz Im persian if not then what ever. I know Alexander the movie is probably so biased towards the greeks , I hope you guys correct any misunderstandings if there is. Any way I’ll be waiting to watch this film as soon as it comes out. Take care………
November 17th, 2004 at 12:55 pm
I think this should be a great movie. It will be nice to see a movie about a non-white grand civilization.
November 19th, 2004 at 12:15 pm
I am wondering what the casting will be like. Will the cast be made up of white actors pretending to be Arab or will they give up on trying to white-wash all the ancient civilizations.
November 22nd, 2004 at 9:36 am
We’re a long way from casting at this point, but it’s nice to hear so many readers are already thinking about it.
December 24th, 2004 at 9:45 am
hey you Mr.number 13, persians are not Arab,persians are persian.
January 30th, 2005 at 3:58 pm
Any ideas on when casting for the movie will be up and running and who the casting director will be?
January 30th, 2005 at 4:04 pm
There’s no schedule yet. Sorry.
February 3rd, 2005 at 10:16 am
Yes We want Sexxxxxy Indian Chick to feature as Maharaja’s daughter. No Western models will do!!!!
Well guys i m serious
February 3rd, 2005 at 12:01 pm
I would love to be a part of the film’s cast. (along with thousands of other people!) how do i go about it? I realise that John as exec producer, has little to do with the casting process but any tips you can give would be of great help.
April 14th, 2005 at 2:24 am
AWESOME!! i always insisted that prince of persia is one of those games that CAN be made into movies. Few games now have the potential in the script/concept which is required to make a good movie, sometimes they land up as disasters… but hey not PoP! will the story of the movie take ahead from warrior within? I observed in Warrior Within that they actually did quite a bit of research on persian culture, the prince does have a more persian look than in SoT. Also my other question is, What happened to the sands of time? If the empress isnt detroyed, then there should be no sands, but even after the prince kills the Dahaka, the empress lives on, But there is no sign of the sands disappearing!! Does that mean she dies in the movie? or are the sands unmade, or simply have gone impotent? I amsorry if am devating from the movie, but i have a queer feeling that the movie is taking off where the end of warrior within left us.
PS: PLEEEASE be careful with the cast, i dont think any actor in hollywood can be cast as the prince. They dont look like that. Cast someone of Central asian or even better, as someone has previously mentioned, someone of INDO-European origin.
A lot of Persians Miagrated to India after the invasion of Arabs, and for centuries they are known to us as Parsees, or More appropriately, Zorostrians (Please pardon me if i got the spelling wrong) So there is a good chance of findng someone as the prince in india as well…
AND MAKE THE MOVIE QUICK QUICK!! CANT WAIT!!
April 14th, 2005 at 5:46 am
It seems to be that a lot of people are expecting quite a lot from this movie. Historical accuracy and political re-addressing being the two main concerns, but people will have to realise that this is a movie based on a video game that contains a main character with superhuman powers. I’m sure Jordan Mechner is a responsible writer who will try to not to offend any Persians in the audience, and as a writer with such a potentially enormous audience I believe he has a certain duty to the historical truth. However, you have to understand that his main objective is to make an entertaining fantasy action film and that may mean taking some liberties with history, or glossing over certain facts.
April 18th, 2005 at 11:10 am
Well said, Mr Punking.
I’m not really sure if the folks posting are regulars to John’s page or fanboys (did I just use that word?), though I suspect the latter.
As a general rule, movies like these are made for pure entertainment; not to raise social consciousness or break down any barrier unrelated to special effects. They are usually grounded in just enough historical accuracy to give them a sense of place and time. I would personally love to see an epic about the Persian empire, or any empire, as I’m a fan of that genre, but I feel it safe to bet this film won’t fall in that category. Nor should it.
As far as casting goes, I wouldn’t get my hopes up there either. Bruckheimer and Disney are producing this. That means blockbuster. The best way to ensure that a blockbuster draws its audience (i.e., a profit) is to cast someone who the public is hot for. I wish that weren’t the case, but it’s simple economics. I’m certain there are many who would have missed Finding Neverland were it not for Johnny Depp starring. Personally, I prefer unknowns. They allow audiences to better lose themselves in the character and story, but that just doesn’t sell as many tickets.
Good luck with the project John. I hope it turns out better than most game-to-movie projects. I mean, I really wanted to like Tomb Raider. But all I took away from that picture was this scene where Angelina Jolie was running and she was wearing this tight kind of… Um, okay, I’ll stop here.
June 5th, 2005 at 11:12 pm
who could i contact for an audition to be cast as the prince. i am 22 and enjoy adventure, this film is right up my aley. not sure on spelling.
thank you
Robert Welch
June 9th, 2005 at 11:42 am
hey everybody i have always thought since the first second i played the game that it would be turned into a movie and it just happens to be one of the most amazing games i have ever played even above halo and now i am dying to play the third one even though its not out. but anyways i have imagined the movie in my mind and i think they are going to do an amazing job on it.so I think that i should be the prince even though im american and sixteen but im just kidding and to all of persians i think it would be cool to be persian. but anyways im going to go now.
June 9th, 2005 at 8:55 pm
Well…..
As I see it, this could either be a very, very good movie, or it could be a real stinker and not reflect the game at all. Sure, you could keep the movie “historical” as some writers have said, but then it wouldn’t be the prince of persia the movie is being made about. Fantasy, I’m talking about. Of course, they will have to add the princes acrobatics to complete it, but, due to certain earthly limitations (gravity) not all the moves will be able to be done. Although, if any of you readers have heard of the sport “parkour”, you will know that it is possible to do almost what the prince does. So, I’m saying (and if any of the movie makers read this, you should look into doing this) the film makers will probably need to get some real professionals. They need to look up Bam, Ez, and Blue Lightning if they really want pros. I’ve beeten pop:sands of time and warrior within, and I already know the entire storyline for kindred blades (pop 3, for those who don’t know the name), so I think I know what I’m talking about when I write all this. To check out some parkour moves, go to urbanfreeflow.com.This is very exiting news, and I look forward to just the previews of the movie. Hope you all learned something from this. Cheers.
June 11th, 2005 at 1:35 pm
I hope this movie will ignore the horrible Warrior within. That game practly raped SOT and insulted Persia by claming it was the same as Babylon.(a country long gone during the period of SOT)And turing the legendary Azi Dahaka into a dark tattoo’d rocker looking thing that was clearly a Balrog ripoff. UBI threw POP down the tubes with WW and it looks like this next game isint going to be any better. I have high hopes for this movie in that it wont fallow in the games footsteps.
PS: John, just so you know please make sure no american actors get in this movie!(gets on his knees)I beg you to convince Brukhiemer to get an unkown or somone just not a famous person like Guy Pearce, Jude Law, or….Orlando…
June 11th, 2005 at 11:07 pm
I agree with your point “The Celt”. Warrior Within, although I personally thought it was a good game, did lack the prestiege that SOT had. Mind you, you have to take into acount that the prince had been running almost not stop from the Dahaka, and no matter where he went, it would still find him. You have to admit that would be pretty anoying and nerve wracking. Hopefully the movie will show the nicer, more romantic and curtious side of the prince (although it kind of has to, because that’s what the prince was like in the first one). About who’s going to play the prince, i have to agree with you again my friend. Even though this is Orlando Bloom’s sort of movie, being action, fighting, and adventure, he isn’t quite what the prince should be. I look forward to reading more. Cheers.
June 14th, 2005 at 7:31 am
Yes you have a point “Guy in the know.” Orlando has done these kind of movies in the past. But he’s so overused and most importantly he doesent look middle-eastern AT ALL! Much less Iranian. As for WW while you have a point there on some areas the Prince from SOT wouldint have ran like some commener. Having almost killed himself at the end of SOT(you did play SOT right John? If not go rent it. You’ll love it! :) )He would have faced the Dahaka and died honorobly.Not run like some rat! The SOT prince and the WW prince are not the same person IMHO.(hell..even the actors are different!)
PS:Any news on the movie John? Hows Jorden doing? Any news on the soundtrack yet? Becuase ive got some folks that might spice this games score up quite abit!
June 14th, 2005 at 6:15 pm
I’ve been thinking this subject over (actors), wondering who might be a good choice. But then I stopped myself and thought “well sure, you need someone good to play the prince, but what about the other characters?”. We need to have actors who suit the characters they are going to play. Sure they can get the absolute best person to play the prince, but if all the other people suck, there goes the entire movie! Even though the movie will be about the prince, you have to find actors who will sufficiently represent their characters.Best of luck, John. Cheers.
June 15th, 2005 at 7:22 pm
Agreed, they dont call them “Supporting actors” for nothing!
June 17th, 2005 at 2:01 am
I think Persian-American film actor David Zahedian of the Pirates of the Caribbean II Dead Man’s Chest should play the role of Prince in the up coming Prince of Persia. David Zahedian just needs to grow he’s hair out…
Jerry Trump
June 17th, 2005 at 2:43 pm
So whats the estimated release date? Im hoping for an summer 2006! :D
June 17th, 2005 at 4:07 pm
A realease date questioning? Well, I think it’s a little early for that yet. They are still working on the script and storyline. But, if you’re looking for estimates, I’d say maybe christmas 2006 to summer 2007. It’s a long ways away, but my parents are both actors, so I know how long movies generally take to complete. By the way John, have you started advertising for auditions yet? Only that my father fits the part of the princes father perfectly. He even has a natural accent. I know that I’m being a bit childish, but, well, you know, it would be very cool if my father could play the prince’s. Talk to you all soon. Cheers.
June 17th, 2005 at 4:13 pm
I ment when can we expect some more news on the movie. :)
June 20th, 2005 at 11:32 am
Just a quick confermation here, but they are making the movie about the sands of time right? Because if they aren’t, and they’re making about pop 1 or 2 (the earliest ones), then I don’t know how good that movie would be then. Oh, wait, no, it is on the sands of time. Whew! Talk to you all later. Cheers.
June 20th, 2005 at 6:02 pm
Yeah i was releaved myself when i found out it was based on SOT. The first two by todays standerds are….well….atlittle cliche yah know what i mean. ;) SOT was practly MADE like a movie. It would deffenetly be a breath of fresh air to the movie industry.(that is, if its done right. If this becomes another “national tresure” i’ll wait till the DVD release.)
June 21st, 2005 at 5:39 pm
Anyone know more of or about this David Zahedian guy??? he’s suppose to be a really good actor like one of those up and coming type actors?? I found a pix of him on http://www.imdb.com and his resumes not bad but I’ve never seen him act? I luv to see a handsome guy that can act for once; I’m so tired of good-looking actors that don’t know how to act. So please if you got more info on this David Zahedian character please share! Thank You!
~Sherry
June 21st, 2005 at 5:40 pm
Anyone know more of or about this David Zahedian guy??? he’s suppose to be a really good actor like one of those up and coming type actors?? I found a pix of him on http://www.imdb.com and his resumes not bad but I’ve never seen him act? I luv to see a handsome guy that can act for once; I’m so tired of good-looking actors that don’t know how to act. So please if you got more info on this David Zahedian character please share! Thank You!
~Sherry
June 21st, 2005 at 10:11 pm
Umm. “Sherry” aka “2sexy4U”:
You’re curious about David Zahedian. I don’t know much about him, but I suspect you do, since the email address you provided is davidzz77@[company].com.
Sigh.
June 22nd, 2005 at 8:32 am
Hahaha. A little shameless self-promotion under the guise of the anonymous third party?
We have someone down here who does that, even going so far as to post in their own IMDB message boards and suggest that their day-player performances hint at talents on par with the greats. This person doesn’t want to be an actor, they want to be a celebrity — and are quickly becoming persona non grata with those in the community who actually focus on their craft rather than their hype.
Thanks for calling BS, John. And just when I thought this thread had slipped into nothingness.
June 23rd, 2005 at 11:36 am
John…
People have been throwing names of actors about for a long time now, but that’s just the fans. Who do you have in mind? Surely there must be someone who you think would fit well. Not just for the prince though. His father, Farah, the vizier(spelling?) or any other characters. Talk to you all soon. Cheers.
June 23rd, 2005 at 2:46 pm
Just so the casting speculation doesn’t get out of hand, we are seriously considering…
no one.
It’s way too early. We haven’t signed a director. It’s not officially a movie yet. It’s just a great script that studio seems excited about making.
June 25th, 2005 at 7:15 pm
Sorry John. :( I didnt mean to bother you with my worrys for this movie. Its just the game is so great that after that horrid sequel ive been leaning on this movie to be the saving grace for the game series.(which is currently in the hands of morons)If the scripts as good as you say then i’d hate to see it ruined by a crudy actor like Guy Pearce or Jude Law.(who dont look eastern IN THE SLIGHTIST)Be sure to let us know when a update(teaser poster :hint: :hint:) on Prince of Persia comes along. :)
June 26th, 2005 at 12:00 pm
I don’t think that the ‘underlying plot’ that will be a little different from the game is the right way to go. But I do not mind. As long as it is true to the story.AlsoI would keep the cast mostly unknown with only a single well known, veteran actor. Say for the Vizir/Vizeir.(I have seen it spelled different ways.)
June 26th, 2005 at 4:07 pm
I agree with Zander the film should fallow in the footsteps of “the Lord of the Rings” in terms of cast. They should get a well known middle eastern actor for the Princes’ father and the Vizier. :)
June 27th, 2005 at 12:43 pm
POP PS2 VG series plays very much like a swash-buckling game. I also think the game translated verbatum to a movie would be a bad idea. The Prince had no friends and no enemies (just obstacles), he was alone, no one to root-him-on or push him down…really isolated. And Phara/Fara, the hot enemy seductress rarely sees the Prince to develop something.
There were a few things in the game that also seemed very inconsistent historically and logically…how he started at a castle–ended in a cave, finally reappeared climbing a seemingly endless fortress
Obvisously Yuri Lowenthal will not be playing the prince in the movies :D, and recreating the scenary would be very costly.
You know John I would love to see the Prince solving riddles and puzzles in the movie (probably not worthy of replay value) but something interactive with the audience would be something truly original.
June 27th, 2005 at 3:58 pm
This is something that has been bothering me for some time now. It may be a bit early to ask yet, but are you going to give the prince a name John? The games have gotten away with not revealing our heroe’s name, but that will be a little bit harder to do in a movie, don’t you think so? I know this will be a big, and I mean BIG task, but think about the possibility of naming the prince. Talk to you again soon.Cheers.
P.S. This isn’t something that has been constant in the games (I don’t know why, though) but will the actors all have educated english accents? You said you don’t know who’s on your list of actors, but have you thought of how you want them to sound? Write back soon John.
June 27th, 2005 at 6:22 pm
That’s true, the guy in the know. Generally, today common Persian names come from kings and princes. So maybe John you, or Jordan, will name the prince based on a common persian name or maybe a landmark?
Also I was wondering how would unleashing a sandstorm be the end of mankind?…if that would not give too much away. (ahem: I can help direct the movie ;))
June 27th, 2005 at 7:41 pm
I dont think english accents would be too bad since it worked in the game. However, if they could find some good Middle-eastern & Indian actors/actresses they should take that route instead.
June 28th, 2005 at 11:36 am
Yes, that’s a good point Celt. It depends on who they can find to play the characters. On the note of actors , who’s this David Zahedian guy? I’ve never heard of him, but his name keeps being brought up. Who is he? I also read that he had been in pirates of the carribean II. When did they make that movie!? Anyways, if someone can tell me who David Zahedian is, I will be very grateful. I want to hear more from you, John. Cheers.
June 28th, 2005 at 3:17 pm
Sure, go to IMDB and type in under actors “David Zahedian”. oorr…you could follow this link. :)
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1738417/
June 28th, 2005 at 3:20 pm
In my opinion hes’ not a good choice for the SOT prince. I think the reason he was brought up in the first place was becuse sombody thought this was a WW movie.
June 28th, 2005 at 4:46 pm
I know casting has not begun yet, and this post will probably be overlooked, but I guess it doesn’t hurt to put an idea out there.
There is a Turkish singer named Tarkan who I had always thought would make an excellent PoP Prince. He is a handsome, rugged, Middle Eastern performer with a wonderful voice. People presented opinions that the cast should be an unknown. I agree, and think that Tarkan would be great because he is basically unknown in the US but anyone who knows him would definitely flock to the theaters to see him. I think he’d fit so well that he wouldn’t even need makeup for the part.
June 29th, 2005 at 10:15 am
TARKAN?! Dude..incase you havent noticed, he’s alittle…uhhh…”limp in the wrist” know what im saying? ;) His music is awsome though.
July 5th, 2005 at 7:53 pm
This is something that could potentially ruin the movie if not done right, even though it dosn’t exactly seem important, but John, what’s the score (music, for those who don’t know) going to sound like? Once again, it might be a little early to be asking, but have you thought about it? I really think some of the music from the game should be used, or atleast keep the “arabian” theme. Get back to us soon, please. Cheers.
July 18th, 2005 at 12:11 pm
I already asked about the music Guy. And personaly i think they should either get an “Arabian” theme or a full blown Persian one.(Persian music is VERY different from Arabian FYI)Aslong as they dont get the guy who did the Pirates of the carribian soundtrack,(god that was dull)i’ll be happy with Hans Zimmer or maybe that Niyaz band.(an Iranian-american music band)I have there Cd and its pretty awsome!:D
July 25th, 2005 at 5:07 pm
I think John Abraham is good for the prince. Ya and have arabic music in it.
August 1st, 2005 at 9:36 am
I think the prince should have the original swords from sands of time and i think it would be good, when the actor of the prince rule ALL the acrobatic skills of the computer prince.
August 1st, 2005 at 3:04 pm
Well, quite obviously the prince will have to have at least one of his game swords. Maybe he shouldn’t “collect” them during the duration of the film, opening secret or impassable doors, trading his current weapon for the ones he finds. Give him his first sword (the one you start out with) and then at the end of the movie, have him find the magical one. You are going to include that Farah steals the dagger and the prince’s sword, right John? Because if not, what will you do? Anyway, the prince should still have one of the swords he has in the game. Talk to you all soon. Cheers.
P.S. I know I told you before John, but for the Prince’s acrobatics, it would be a good idea to get someone who is an expert at Parkour. If you don’t know what Parkour is, go to http://www.urbanfreeflow.com. A person who, in my experience, seems to be one of the best at parkour is called Bam. You will see his name allot on the site.
August 2nd, 2005 at 5:55 am
the right link is here: http://www.urbanfreeflow.com In my opinion, to have an expert in parkour is a duty. And the prince should have the same clothes as in the game.
August 2nd, 2005 at 5:58 am
Yeah! An expert in Parkour is in my opinion duty. right link: http://www.urbanfreeflow.com The prince should have the same clothes as in the game.
–> Prince IT!!
August 7th, 2005 at 6:17 pm
http://forums.ubi.com/eve/ubb.x?a=frm&s=400102&f=861108132
go there, read what the people have to say about the movie. See who they want acting and such!
August 7th, 2005 at 10:21 pm
I know that the casting for the prince probably has to be already an actor. But, I want to know if I could try out for the character. But I don’t know where to go. If they have already chosen the actor. Then sorry to waste time. Oh, and where can I send a photo, to see if I could be the best choice. Well, sorry for this. I am actually serious about this movie. I just don’t have enough money. So, I guess sorry for this waste of space.
August 8th, 2005 at 8:32 am
Oh god, I’d love there to be a POP movie, I just can’t wait until it comes out because (does anyone know when that is since John posted that in March and is the “deal sealed”) I have played both games but I have honourably got to say that WW has been a better experience than the sissy, loveydovey Prince on SOT! I’ll give the movie a shot and if it’s good I’ll be one of the first to get it on DVD!
August 15th, 2005 at 4:46 pm
Hey John, I was wondering if the script to the Prince of Persia movie is near completion or in limbo because its been a while since it was announced and I was starting to wonder if the whole thing was cancelled. I also was wondering if a guess or estimation could be made to how many years until it would hit theaters? Another thing I wanted to ask was is it taking a while because Jerry Bruckheimer is currently occupied with the Pirates of the Caribbean sequels or is it simply because it takes a long time to write a screenplay? I know I asked a lot but hopefully you’l have answers for me. I just had to get it all out because I loved the Sands of Time and I am highly anticipating seeing the film so could you please respond? Thanks.
August 16th, 2005 at 10:07 pm
I wouldint go to the link Santarus posted for views on who your trying to target as viewers and diehard fans John, because those folks are fans of the new WW game and its sequel not SOT. The true fans of the latter have been seldom seen ever since the first screenshots and vidoes of WW. They were smart nice folks and i miss them. But hardly any of them stuck around for WW as they were most likely just as dissapointed as i was. :( If you want this flick to be smart charming and full of charicter with an Iranian flare i’d suggest sticking to ignoreing the current inhabitants of the ubiforums. ;) My two cents John.
August 17th, 2005 at 8:47 am
I wasn’t very impressed with Warrior Withn. If ever a sequel is made to the Sands of Time, I think they should stick to the lighter tone from sands of time. Though the warrior within title could be kept and the story line. The dark tone of Warrior Within was just too boring and depressing.
August 17th, 2005 at 2:13 pm
I agree with Adam they should have split the series into two so fans of both games would be happy. Personaly i think teh Prince in WW should’ve been the SOT princes’ older brother becuase he states he is the youngest in his famely i dont see why ubi had to be so stupid and ignore that little bit.
August 22nd, 2005 at 10:15 pm
WHOOOOOOO!!!
August 23rd, 2005 at 11:21 am
Another video game is being adapted to a screenplay? God help us all. Doom looks like zombies in space, a complete waste of time with no surprises.
Sincerely, Karl Rove, aka Turd Blossom
PS, I liked Big Fish by the way.
September 7th, 2005 at 10:22 pm
Well, long time no talk for me!
In response to “Bad Karl”, this not just another game. This is the absolute best game in the world, and I am not just being like other people who say that with no evidence to support there claim. The Prince of persia games (SOT onward, that is) set the bench mark for all other games following them.The physics, technology, and all the other astonishing components of this game created a model for other game companies to take off of. True, they are making alot of games into movies now, for example, Halo, and the lisence has been bought to make a Metroid Prime movie, but Prince of Persia is a series you just have to make into a movie.No, this is not just another game “karl”, this, is Prince of Persia! And, scene. Talk to you all soon. Cheers.
P.s.
John… Sot was rated T for blood and violence. But also suggestive themes. what are you going to do about that part of the game? are you going leave it to our imagination as the game did, or… go farther. Talk to me John. Cheers.
September 8th, 2005 at 4:06 am
I think its kinda a no-brianer to rate this flim PG-13(same as POTC)Since its just like that movie action and violence wise. Plus it would appeal to a lager addeunce(srry for spelling)then an R rating would. And i wouldint bother John ATM i think he’s busy with other projects.(Coprse Bride ect.)And since all there is of the film is a scirpt i dont think we’ll be seeing a teaser trialer anytime soon. ;)
September 10th, 2005 at 7:37 pm
I think Hossein Yari is a good actor for this role. he is handsome and, a Famous persian actor. here is a picture of him http://www.e.bell.ca/filmfest/2005/films_description.asp?id=63
and this is a trailer of his new movie(Day Break) http://www.prometheuscinema.com/Prometheus_Cinema/daybreak/trailer1.html
September 10th, 2005 at 8:29 pm
here is another persian actor who could be the prince (hesam navab safavi) http://www.hesamnavabsafavi.com/
September 11th, 2005 at 1:49 pm
Hmmm… Heram actually does look good for the part. Out of all the names that have been put out, he, in my oppinion, is the best so far.You should check him out John. He really looks somewhat like the Prince. Thanks for the heads up “the prince”. Oh, and John, how far are you on the film? Obviosely not casting already, but are you done the script yet?Talk to you soon. Cheers.
September 11th, 2005 at 1:52 pm
Hesam, sorry.
September 22nd, 2005 at 4:56 pm
Oh, so much indecision…
have any of you seen kingdom of heaven? not to say he’s the best choice, but Orlando Bloom, with the long hair and beard (although he’d have to lose the mustach) does look somewhat like the prince. i’m just pitching it out there. Any time John. Cheers.
September 29th, 2005 at 10:04 am
Hello everybody,
I think it is great that there’ll be a movie about PoP! Most of my friends agree with that. We thought that Johhny Depp would do good as the prince. And If there’s coming a sort of Farah, that a good look-a-like would do fine. I hope the movie’s making much progress. How faster It’s in theaters, how better! Sorry for my bad English.
Greetings,
Marten
October 1st, 2005 at 7:29 pm
ok John…
I was just reading on your site that you have finished the script. Now all you have to do is find a suitable director. Any chance you might be telling us the main story for the movie? If not, at least tell us if it’s true to the game. Talk to you soon. Cheers.
October 6th, 2005 at 4:20 pm
Hmm i like that Hesam dude. But can he speak fluid english? And if so is he a good actor?
October 12th, 2005 at 5:30 pm
I enjoyed the games immensly and am really anticipating seeing the prince make his move to the big screen. As for who could play the prince, I think an up and coming actor named ‘Tony Jaa’ would be ideal. He has the right phsyique, excellent martial art skills and very good acrobatic ability, as can be seen in a movie called ‘Ong Bak’ in which he stars.
Can anyone comment with their thoughts?
November 15th, 2005 at 2:01 pm
John, whoever you’re going to take for a female roll, please take a indian colored girl. Not Angelina Jolie or someone like her.
Greetings,
November 21st, 2005 at 4:17 am
I have a feeling that Angelina Jolie will be in it.
December 2nd, 2005 at 9:28 pm
The Teo Thrones is officially out…I heard its a mix of SOT and WW so it should be great….i really hope the movie eventually gets off the ground it is literally perfect for a film adaption
December 2nd, 2005 at 9:29 pm
my mistake i meant The Two Thrones
December 9th, 2005 at 6:55 pm
Hey!! Man, I doubt anyone of importance will ever reads this, and even if they did, probably wouldnt consider… but I would love to play the part of the prince. I love the game, loved the story line, everything about it. Anything I do I got for it full force! Just trying to get myself out there!!
December 13th, 2005 at 8:25 pm
I’m a Lebanese director and actor graduated from Wayne state university to be honest I saw this movie coming a mile away because i always saw this game becoming a great film my issue is that if there is any possible way for me to work on this film as volunteer for the love of what this movie going to be i did 3 short independent films, highly experienced in finalcutpro hd, avid, cameraman so if there is any chance that you need volunteers to work anytime or anywhere on my own expense I’ll really appreciated plus I’m fluent in Arabic and English language speaking and writing. Thank you.
December 19th, 2005 at 6:23 pm
Look first off, i partially do agree with how everyone mentions that in previous movies that Persians were portrayed as Arabs such as movies like “Alexander”, but this is a video game intepretation. It might not be a direct translation from one of the series but it does contain similar lines to the games concept. I’m persian myself so i would definetly like this movie to be done well, even though in the game it doesn’t ever mention Iran. At not point in time do i believe Indians or Arab looking people should be cast. Iranians/Persians have a slighly different look to them, even though some look more towards Arab, it does not fall into any of the 2 countries. The persians should be portrayed as more towards European/Arabic appearance, but not more of the other.
A casting recommendation is, use well known actors. A game like this shouldn’t gamble it’s luck on up coming actors, they should only be used as supporting actors in my opinion. I always thought Johnny Depp would suit the role perfectly, and i mean PERFECTLY!.
Music wise, please consider that symphonic chanting was a traditional music, which i believe a perfect composer would be Hans Zimmer (who would be perfect). Since this is a game based movie, the music needed to be done right, then Enya would have to be considered aswell. I’m not mentioning the popular people here, but i’m mentioning people who i believe would bring out the beauty of Persian music and style.
Alot of movies have faced in the past which were based on video games and even movies that weren’t based on anything have faced one problem which has left everyone to hate it is that it DOES NOT stick to the point. If you rush this movie and if you try to throw anything together to make this movie then you will face another onslaught of critics to give you a bad name to the industy.
I’m positive you will do a good job and since Bruckheimer is behind the production, then it could only mean good things, but please don’t expect any good feedback or awards if you don’t put in the patience to understand the logic behind why people love a particular movie and why they hate the other.
December 23rd, 2005 at 12:58 am
Um I have one question is there going to be more than one movie?? Also could there ever be a movie of this created to be like the final fantasy movie(I mean like the cartoon style with high graphics and everything) because that would almost be more interesting than a real people movie. That way the stunts and stuff done in the game can be more related to the gamers that played the games. This way no one has anything to complain about stuff not seen in the game.
Also one of the cimimatic movies in the warrior within is him doing some big battle with an army and stuff that would make a realy cool movie if anyone knows what im talking about.
December 25th, 2005 at 9:36 pm
ok wow what is going on with this movie why isn’t it getting off the grand this film will put gold in your pockets John you might want to check up on the statu of this project…….Prince of Persia is perfect for the screen and an easy bread winner
December 28th, 2005 at 11:40 am
You have a very good point Adam, they have been talking about this movie sience March, of 04 so I also have got to wonder why the heck hasn’t this project gotten off the ground yet?
I want you guys to take all the time that you need to make this movie a success, but I mean geez give us a update every once in a while.
December 30th, 2005 at 11:44 pm
I think it’s funny how some of you write so much as if he’s going to read it..
If you happen to glance at this, please don’t use Indian actors/actresses.. c’mon..
January 1st, 2006 at 10:37 am
i think this movie should be don’t exactly like the game when he walks on walls or the way he kills when he moves and i think a good actor for the film should be me hahahahahhahahh no but i’m seriouse i look exactly like the prince and they call me the prince by the way
January 1st, 2006 at 10:38 am
yeah and i i want angilina jolie to be my co-star and the film has to have a lot sex scenes or i won’t do it thank you
January 8th, 2006 at 5:39 pm
Boy moe, Somebody seems to be a bit full of himself J/K
Also moe do you really think that Disney of all people will do a sex scene… Nice try prince! But I am curious, how much do you look like the Prince? Maybe you could post a picture or something.
These are my candidates for Kaileena if they make a sequel.
Monica Bellucci: Who better to play Kaileena than Kaileena herself.
Angilina Jolie: Yes moe you did bring up a good point, but don’t you think she would be better suited for Kaileena than Farah?
Shakira: After seeing the Ojos Asi video I am convinced that she would make a nifty Kaileena
And about the nationality thing, I think that the nationality’s should all fit the characters. For example the person to play Farah should be of Indian decent. With the exception of Kaileena because her nationality is not really known other than that she is a Daeva created by the Hindu God’s.
January 8th, 2006 at 11:36 pm
i think angelina would make a great kaileena and shakira migt make a good farah and if they make a sequel they should have the actor who plays the prince grow his hair out and we all forgot about an actor for the vizier and i hope they make one for T2T that would be cool but you would need to get alot of special effects for the transformed vizier and a new actor for farah
January 21st, 2006 at 10:13 am
Whatever you (honorable) people considering a Price movie do, DON`T EVER GIVE UP ON IT!!! Now, for the actors … no idea :P maybe they should take a chance with some new guys – like Jackson did with Legolas (no,I am not saying Orlando Bloom should play Prince, he is too sentimental for that)
PS – I think this moe is only asking for attention.
NOTE – I think Jackie Chan should play Prince ;P
January 27th, 2006 at 2:44 am
Let me just get this out of the way: Everyone, this film is NOT I repeat NOT completly based on the recent POP games, only SOT and the games before that.(POP1, and POP2 shadow and the flame.)Which means that sequels based on WW and TTT are probubly not going to happen. I mean if Brukhiemer is smart he will keep the style of the original release in his sequels and wont polerize the fansbase by completly changing things around like UBI did, movies dont work that way.(i.e Godfather III, Star Wars preqeuls, ect)In other words, you stay with the formula you have, and if it aint broke, dont fix it! I’m not trying to piss on your parades or anything, I just dont want to get your hopes up in thinking WW and TTT will hit the big screen. They just wouldint work as sequels or as movies period.
January 27th, 2006 at 12:09 pm
they will hit the big screen most likely is SOS is a hit…but they will be like sands of time though…i bet theyl keep that continuity
January 28th, 2006 at 9:08 pm
Thats great that your doing Prince because its a great story. Just make sure though that it is going to be historically accurate, atleast for the most part. I mean since it is a fantasy it can’t be completely believable but I mean as far as casting, even though its great to see familiar faces, you should find people who are of persian/Indian decent as well as find designersfrom south asia who know what kind of clothes existed in this time period. It would give it a more believable vibe. Cuz remember not all south asians are fair skinned!;) Its only too bad i live far away…i would have killed to be even an extra in this! good luck!
February 1st, 2006 at 7:47 pm
Please don’t disrespect the persian history, don’t use arab’s. We are a complete different people, no disrespects to arabs. I hope the movie shows the Persian Empire(the Palace”Persopolis”). Cyrus the Great, the culture of Persia. Don’t forget we were the first civilization on earth to have a Human Rights Declaration, this is fact. Check the British Museum. We were the first culture to allow freedom of all religion and give a human rights declartion. Unlike the Greek’s who had slaves. The persian empire was peaceful even the conqured nations under the Persian empire were left alone(the captured were not killed or taken ask slaves under the rule of Darius the Great). We were the first nation to have Democracy. Zoroastrinism is the first monotheistic religion know in civilization. Please don’t use the Koran and show people wearing turbuns and beards to the floor, were talking about the Persian Empire. I see can’t believe all those nonsense and multiple gods of the greeks.
February 4th, 2006 at 11:03 am
I agree with Shahriar,don’t disrespect it.Ubi has awaken me the love to the Persian History,so please hold it:)
February 5th, 2006 at 3:23 pm
why are you changing the plot? the plot was awesome by itself, and to make it anything like pirates of the caribbean (which was okay) is embarassing. and why is disney doing this film? all throughout this story is blood and half-dressed women….how is disney gonna pull that one off? but seriously, if there is gonna be a film, stick close to the original story, because it is a good story (just because resident evil sucked doesnt mean this screen translation will), and if at all possible, cast jared leto as the role of the prince. take a look at this guy and tell me he doesn’t look exactly like the prince of persia
February 7th, 2006 at 2:00 pm
If they wouldn’t change the plot, you’ld have a lot of running, jumping and fighting. And that wouldn’t make it a good movie. Though they should save the farah and the vizir thing. Good luck with it John, and please add some updates! I’ve heard the movie is coming this year October, is that right? It would be great if it comes earlyer, I’m waitintg on this movie for over 2 years now.
February 21st, 2006 at 6:15 pm
Hi Jhon, when is the movie going to be produced? anytime soon? i am 25 years old now? is it gonna be in theaters before i turn 40?
February 24th, 2006 at 9:22 am
How are you going to do the time twisting affects? The Returner has a guy that can control time in it, and that worked well, but that was used in gunfights, and I’m wondering if the same affect would work in hyper-paced sword fights, talking of the fighting, the prince’s style was very fluid and rubbery, so I expect you could get away with using a lot of CGI in the battle scenes, as long as you keep it consistent (seeing Blade suddenly become a weightless rubber acrobat ruined Blade 2, whereas the hyperactive fluid styling of characters such as Spiderman (the movie) worked well for them, and I think would work for the prince too.)
February 25th, 2006 at 11:24 pm
I just wanted to make a suggestion. I saw Kingdom of Heaven not too long ago, and I could swear that Ghassan Massoud, who played Saladin, looks a lot like the vizier. He seems to be a really good actor too. Just a thought for later on down the road…
March 4th, 2006 at 12:14 am
If PRINCE OF PERSIA movie is released then it will become the biggest hit movie of ALL times. And no other movie’s collection will over take this movies collection.
March 7th, 2006 at 12:26 pm
but thats only “IF” the movie ever comes out of the closet.
March 8th, 2006 at 3:33 pm
Hey John. I cannot wait for the POP movie to come out ( assuming it does… Hurry up!) The movie should NOT cast Johnny Depp as he is FAR too old and looks NOTHING like the part. Also, everyone complaining about “How there should be a persian actor”. who cares? I know I don’t. and I’m sure many people who are fans of the games will agree with me. As long as the actor looks and acts like the Prince, I could care less. Also tell casting that someone unknown would be best for this movie because the names I’m hearing on various forums is ridiculous. Thanks
March 14th, 2006 at 6:34 am
I think the movie is a graet idea and i hope it dose not ruin the games for any one good luck.
March 22nd, 2006 at 1:05 pm
Hey, I do think the movie will be a good idea. And in the future I would hope to see a new series of Prince Of Persia game line. The fist three were out of this world, and I am a 20yr old man who has been playing since i was 18yrs old. And since the beginning has been waiting for a movie. (P.S. I am availible to play the Prince in the movie i just need to grow ou my hair but i am atheletic not like him, nobody is as agile as the prince. But with some movie magic I would make the perfect Prince of Persia.)
April 11th, 2006 at 7:14 pm
Yeah! I believe this movie is going to be a sensation! I cannont wait till this movie!! please do not re-consider! continue to create this movie because i know its going to be a spectacular movie!! i have plaed all the games and have been waiting to hear about this moment! good luck!!
Josh
April 15th, 2006 at 3:18 pm
Maybe they’re making the movie already, but they’re not telling us. And in a month there are like all kinds of promotions going round because the movie will be in cinemas on 30 may..(a)
I know it’s rediculous.(a) I just hope that there will be any progress soon. Because this movie is going to be a big hit and yes, it’s worth waiting, but I’d rather see it on big screens tommorrow. So John, get along with that movie, we’re all waiting to see this masterpiece ;)
PoP
April 18th, 2006 at 11:50 am
ive played all the games, and im into free running,i can run about 15 metres across a wall, i recon i would make a great prince of persia also i once killed a buffalo with a sword so that would help too. lol
April 22nd, 2006 at 9:12 pm
check out sarah brightmans music….especially her song “harem” its awesome and its middle eastern influence but theres a real cool techno beat in the middle of it that starts up with orchestra and all.
honestly its worth checking out….
just thought with the music it would be cool to have maybe a few songs modernised….like with brightmans music as i said is middle eastern with orchestra and beats…..so yeh check it out if your interested.
April 24th, 2006 at 2:06 pm
I agree with the post about Tarkan. All you need to do is take one look at him to see he looks completely like the prince. And yes he can speak english. He has become popular enough in the USA that he has released a cd in english. Yes he has an excellent voice as well. If you don’t use him as the actor due to the possibility of lack of acting talent then at least get him to do some of the music as ethnically it would fit right in with the movie. And some posters should no better than to make remarks about someones sexuality if it is or isnt true. To be honest I don’t really care about that. Its the talent that matters.
April 26th, 2006 at 12:05 pm
John, Do you know if Warrior Within and Two Thrones will also be adapted for the big screen???
April 28th, 2006 at 2:43 am
hi everybody i just want to make afew point about the persians we are not f*** ARABS and i hope you lot undreasrtand that 2 please i beg u do not use indian actors or actress we dont look like indians however you can use actros form IRAN OR TURKEY there are many good iranian actors that look like the prince and they also speak and undreastand English!!!!!!!!!!
i personally bout and play all 3 games ww SOT and TT and they wehere great!!!!!!!
i have a question do you know is there going to be another prince of persia game or not????????
thanx Amir Mostafa
April 28th, 2006 at 2:50 am
heloo again Iranians or persians do not speak farsi we speak persian the rule is if you can speak the languegfe(persian) you say farsi however if you dont you have to say Persian so rthe person you are taking to well know that you can speak the languege or not
thanke you
May 1st, 2006 at 6:01 pm
humm.. notice how nobody in America will really care if Persians are Arab or not. I am an American-Iranian, and to tell you the truth, I could care less what nationality the actor is, as long as they portray the Prince’s character accurately and creatively and look like the prince. Of course, if it is blatantly obvious that the actor does not look Iranian at all… well, then I do care… It’s the same as if a Russian played a Chinese person as opposed to a Korean playing a Japanese person. To the ignorant, Korean people and Japanese people look the same, however; a Russian as opposed to a Chinese person would be easily distinguishable. Point is… accuracy of portrayal is important, whereas pride is not… That’s why it’s called acting…
Like, me, for instance; I can pull off middle eastern, Spanish, Italian, Mexican, etc. etc. even though I am Persian. Doesn’t matter WHO I am as a person, just as like as the audience buys into the illusion that I am who I say I am on film. Again, that’s what acting really is. So to give out some advise to the critical people out there. Drop your pride. Now. It won’t serve you. Don’t see people by color, but by species. We’re all the same; we’re all human. That’s all.
P.S. – Like all the other Prince of Persia wanna-bees, I will be auditioning for this movie, too!! Wish me luck!! w0000000t!
May 3rd, 2006 at 2:37 am
luck not lock sorry
May 7th, 2006 at 6:12 pm
I cant wait for the movie to come out!! I hope the movie is as amazing as all the games. I’ve played and beaten all 3 of the games. I hope you guys do a great job on this movie and not make this movie make the game look bad.
May 10th, 2006 at 8:09 am
Hi people! I have to say I was fascinated by POP games (SOT and WW) but didn’t like TTT much. It was like the creators just wanted to make cash and didn’t care about the quality of the game. I’m not saying it’s BAD but the trailer promised much more.. Anyway, I like the idea of movie being based on SOT, but if there’s going to be only one movie it would be great to make a combination of SOT and WW Prince. And also I think the music in SOT suites much better than the one from WW ( although it’s great too).
I agree with HolyDash it really doesn’t matter if the actor’s gonna be arabian or persian or even american, as long as he suits the role. We are so different, yet we’re all the same.People. Prince should definately have that indo-european charm and a dark skin.
P.S. I think that ODED FEHR would make a great Prince!!!!! Don’t use Johnny Depp, he’s too elegant for that part, and don’t use Orlando, please he’s too famous and Jared Leto looks a lttle childlishly to me. But that’s me. I just want to help you pick the best actor and ODED FEHR seems to have it all.
Kisses
May 15th, 2006 at 9:14 am
Hi John, any news? Tell us what you’re thinking about, you might get some pretty cool ideas here, from all our “advices and suggestions”.. :) I hope that things are going fine with the movie (sorry for the grammar,my english is not so good..), anyway I wish you luck!
P.S. Don’t give up on this, YOU KNOW it’s gonna be HUGE, just do a good job..!
May 22nd, 2006 at 4:20 am
i think you can find a great iranian actor like Mohammad Reza Golzar. he looks exactly like the prince iand i also think he is a great actor
May 22nd, 2006 at 4:24 am
http://www.mrgolzar.ir/main.htm
May 23rd, 2006 at 2:46 pm
errmmm… John… just curious… but who the hell is Josh Somerhalder??? Apparently he’s been chosen for the Prince on IMDB even though there’s no director yet for the film… sounds kinda fishy.
May 25th, 2006 at 2:49 am
Hey guys Im a big fan of prince of persia and also a big nationalist who loves the idea of SOT being made into a movie with some transformation i think that this movie can in fact bring some cultural awareness in addition to amazing entertainment. heres just a few statements of fact One in the 9th century Iran was occupied by Arabs and the Turks were challenging from the east and so there was no persian empire even though there were small persian kingdoms and principalities they were not centralized and each did their own thing. so i would suggest to u john to take the plot maybe 1800 years back and that would make perfect historical sense since the median empire(an Iranian empire) did in fact exist in 900 B.C and Iranians did believe in alot of magic back then and they had some powerful magis(priests=the word magic is the derivitive of which)who did alot of mystical and magical shit. Attention that this was a pre-zoroastrian and pagan but still iranian and indo europeam religion we still celebrate christmas on the same day that was celebrated before as the birth of mithra instead we say jesus was born on that day however its a known fact that jesus was born in spring(maybe the word mithraism would ring a bell if you guys are interested in historical religiology) So this would deal with the magical elements of the storyline. im sure John and the fellow producers know that Arabs and Iranians are different so no matter which actors they use they can film the movie in such way that its clear that the prince is Iranian and not Arab. also guys i appreciate if we all use Iranian instaed of Persian…. Cuz persia is a state of the greater Iran its like calling America, California also in case you guys are wondering the root for the word persian comes from the greeks because they used the kings backgrounds to scribe history and at the time the Iranian kings were the achamanaids who are specifically from the Persia Area in south of Iran…Iranian scribes did the same thing when writing about greeks and instead of calling them Greeks they called them the Ionians(and infact many people know Greece as Yoonaan the persian adaptation of the word Ion) for the casting too i had some ideas I believe Kiera Knightly would be the perfect match for Kaileena and she also does have a typical Persian look fitting her character also for the prince ashton kuther has the perfect face structure however i do agree that he is kinda childish but if he can work on that he looks alot like the prince…also kathrine zeta jones looks alot like Ferah even though she is kinda older generation the make up artists are WOW these days
June 4th, 2006 at 5:51 am
for the love of god i hope it wont be a disney film, if it will it will suck, disney films held back many aspects of films, fighting, killing and little things which make a movie good. look at narnia how sh#t that was because it was a disney. disney should stay to what its good at, drawing. OMG im kinda pissed of about prince of persia ( although i love the games dearly) i wanted to direct them. if i had a choice to direct it i wouldnt choose any holly wood actors because that would mess it up, i would choose persian, arabic people actors to take on the roles of prince and farah. and it would be set in a persian country with beautiful scenery not a hollywood set. and the language should be in proper dialect not american or english. if the directors make a mess of this film i will step up to do either WWI or TTT. good luck neways and i will look forward to see it. oliver
June 4th, 2006 at 5:57 am
i would also advise having the creators or prince of persia to help mould the film and for music , would get hanz zimmer to do it he did last samurai, galdiator, king arthur, mission impossible 2,he is ideal for this style of music because he does very oriental eastern music oliver
June 4th, 2006 at 6:48 am
Whoever said that BAM should be used for Parkour and is the best is out of his mind. If they are looking to use an elite practitioner of Parkour, David Belle is the guy to go for, after his lead performance in B13 I think his non cgi abilities would blow anyone away. That and being the founder of Parkour.
June 18th, 2006 at 4:29 pm
NO way this movie will look similar to the game if it is produced in a “pirates of the caribbean” style…the game has a way too agressive and bloodbath-like attitude for it to be created by “Disney Pictures”. This will SOO ruin the game and what could be a very awesome movie if it would be created like a more action, agressive type of movie, with a KILLER soundtrack with some suit ass heavy metal songs in each fight and as prince walks along the walls! some suspense will also add some spice to the film as well!!
CONCLUSION: MAKE THE MOVIE A SWEET ASS ACTION, BLOODLIKE-DECAPITATING FILM!!!
June 25th, 2006 at 10:01 pm
i think that if there not gonna use the storyline from the real game then they shouldn’t call it prince of persia the sands of time. also will they be making warrior within and the two thrones which are the other two games in the series
June 26th, 2006 at 2:03 pm
Icarus, I dont know how many times I’ve said this but the movie will be nothing like the games you know. Its based more on the first game Sands of Time and the ones before it. Plus its way more profitible to make a movie for the familys like POTC rather than making a pointless gothic-angst movie.(Why do you think Disney has been around for so long?)POP:SOT proved that “SWEET ASS ACTION, BLOODLIKE-DECAPITATING” is’int needed for a good story and probubly wont be for this movie.
PS:Besides, seeing as how this is its own entity rather than a direct port-to-movie release, WW and TTT probubly wont be made as sequels.
July 6th, 2006 at 12:02 pm
While browsing the internet, imdb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0473075/) claims that Josh Somerhalder will be playing the prince – I would agree with Parkour Woman that David Belle would make an excellent prince.
Mr. August, if you have not looked into him yet, may I highly reckomend that you approach him as a lead – or at the very least as a stunt advisor to the POP:SOT film.
To the rest, what made the POP games so thrilling was the gravity defying acrobatics of the prince – it’s this “coolness” factor that had people coming back for, I beleive 6 different installments; prince of persia, prince of persia II: trial by fire, prince of persia 3D, PoP:SoT, PoP:WW, & PoP:TTT.
All the best for the movie, I look forward to seeing it :)
July 6th, 2006 at 10:50 pm
Why not use a real Persian with an all american upbringing and a strong ethinic look. David Zahedian is the man. I’ve worked with this guy…he walks onto sets and gets instantly upgraded because of his talents and humble spirit. Make DAVID ZAHEDIAN “The Prince Persia”
July 7th, 2006 at 7:41 am
The movie should be a animated production with crisp videos like the ones rom Bink used in the game (esp Warrior Within).. No actor can cope up with the character created by the character animators. N the efect that can be elt by the animation will not be recreated by real characters.. For example the video from Warrior Within when the prince puts on the Mask of Wraith….
July 7th, 2006 at 8:10 pm
@Jasvinder:Indeed, and no animator and cope up with the character created by a good actor. ;) I really dont think an animated production is the way to go on this one. Otherwise it wont be very impressive since the “ooh” and “ah” factor of 100% CGI films is begining to wane.
@Mr.August:I read recently that a mister “Jeffrey Nachmanoff” is rewriting the script for the movie. Is this true? Becuase he was the screenplay writer for “The Day After Tomorrow”. I hated that movie and thusly kinda worried he’ll screw it up. Maybe you could help reassure me or atleast share with us your feelings on this decision?
July 9th, 2006 at 2:26 pm
When was the last time that Mr. Jhon August actually replied to the questions and comments?
July 11th, 2006 at 7:37 am
Why, just now!
July 13th, 2006 at 4:31 pm
This movie will be awesome, especially if done in the pirates of the caribbean-esque manner. The mixture between fantasy and reality should be a good feel to the movie. Disney’s specialty. And the teen rated game was stressing that too, which is why it was so great.
July 18th, 2006 at 7:11 am
Omg please dont make a movie of this game, you will ruin it. Other games that have been made into movies have totally sucked.
Not just games that have been turned into movies but cartoons and comics which were great to watch and read have been changed and made different in the actual movies which in turn makes it suck ass.
July 19th, 2006 at 7:07 am
Since everybody is talking about casting, I figured I should put my very own and personal 2 cents in:
I don’t care who plays the Prince, as long as you find a way to put Omid Djalili, Tony Shalhoub and Omar Sharif in the movie somehow.
Very looking forward to both this and The Movie, Steve.
July 24th, 2006 at 6:47 am
what about using james marsden as the prince
August 5th, 2006 at 1:30 am
Prince of Persia (all three games) has the great foundations for a great epic movie blockbuster. If it is made in the same vein (as Lord of the Rings, Kingdom of Heaven,Underworld etc..)where you have huge battle scenes, action, mystery and adventure with a dash of romance and not turn the movie into Disneyland type movie (by keeping in mind the more mature type audience) this will keep the audience coming back for more. The game illustrates an interesting progression of the storyline and has all of the ugly and wonderful characters people like to fear and love. I really hope they producers do a great job and reek the rewards. Good luck and looking forward to see a great movie.
August 6th, 2006 at 3:12 am
prince of persia should not be a disney and no american actor should play the prince. and it has to be in the proper language, similar style to kingdom of heaven, but with cool effects, acrobatics and magical contents that are in the game of prince of persia.
August 6th, 2006 at 3:19 am
since playing pop:sot i always wanted to to direct the trilogy, but now someone has taken that dream away from me :( and visions of the film, for how i would imagine it are sinking to the bottom of the sea :(:(:(:(:( and knowing someone else got to it first nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo
August 6th, 2006 at 3:21 am
take elements from pirates of the carribbean but dont make it will commedy features, it should be a good action, serious preformance that can deliver what the game did.
August 7th, 2006 at 7:17 am
i say the movie should be exactly like the game and rate 18 so we can see some proper action and blood in it like the game
August 7th, 2006 at 8:06 am
i agree with ahriman’s idea make the certificate 12+ 15+ so we can see a good deal of acrobatic and fights that the prince delivers in the game. and the language should be in the proper dialect.
August 7th, 2006 at 8:07 am
and blood……..
August 17th, 2006 at 7:23 pm
Hey, so it’s true. There IS going to be a “Prince of Persia” movie.
I hope for the best out of this movie… no Resident Evil failure, you hear?
I want my Farrah and Prince coupling. :-D
Anyways… Good luck with filming and I hope you guys produce a real kick arse movie!
August 21st, 2006 at 10:55 pm
Dude, this movie better have a Persian as the main character. I don’t want some Jonnie Dope or Ben Affliction in it. Like the main character better be a 100% or at least 50% Iranian. Strait up. I played the original game from Black and White though to the Sands of Time. The second and third games seemed repetitive and too like each other. So check list,
1# Main actor dudes and dudests, IRANIAN 2# Story, Better be on a scale from AWSOMENESS X10 to EVEN MORE AWSOMENESS X10 3# you screw this up and you will have some crazy ass Iranians chanting ALALLALALALALALALALLALAALLALAL at your front door. ******Fariborz, 150% Iranian. peace, love, and joy yall
August 22nd, 2006 at 6:33 pm
I don’t think that the PoP movie should be by disney i just don’t see disney making a bloody movie with such adult action. Sure it worked on Pirates of the Caribbean but Disney and an R-rating (which I think this movie should be rated) just don’t mix
August 24th, 2006 at 4:21 am
Earlier in the posts you referenced you were not casting yet, but since then a year and two months have past. Any changes since then as to the status of casting, as well as who to go about contacting?
August 29th, 2006 at 3:33 pm
i just finished up playing the PoP the two thrones, and it made me remember hearing something about a movie awhile ago, so i found this page. hope the movie is in decent development condition and not in studio hell, because i rather enjoyed the last three games, i just ask they get this right, doesn’t have to be spot on with the games or anything, but as long as the general feel and real essence of the story, action, and scenary is intact then this could be great, that would be something, a video game movie that turns out great, most are quite subpar, and the best are barely decent, and i don’t care about periods when i’m posting
September 6th, 2006 at 4:57 am
wat up i have been posting my comment for a very long time man and i have hheard nothing from u wats goin on man tell us somthing about the movie thje charectors or when it going to be out plez by the way use pure blood iranian is the movie beacuse the movie is about them and also iranians are not ARABS TURKS OR ANY OTHER RACES THEY ARE PERSIANS AND I HOPE EVERYONE HAVE REALISED THAT ALREADY tanx ahriman
check out my blog http://www.Ahriman87.persianblog.com
September 17th, 2006 at 9:31 pm
come on john! when are we going to get an update on Prince of Persia?? that should be the #1 priority for everyone right now! this wait is killing me! the movie was announced 3 YEARS ago! shouldnt something be happening with it by now? thanks
Rob
September 18th, 2006 at 9:20 am
I’ve been playing PoP for a long ass time and its my favorite … What else can I say? … I would like to see a few wall jumps and acrobatics in this movie though … No offense to all of the other people but you guys get way to deep on your comments and history … My bad, but I gotta say it … PLEASE dont fuck it up :) haha
October 3rd, 2006 at 6:09 am
john august is just scared that they might fuck pop films thats y there is no answer, i should direct it instead and u wont be dissapointed :D:D:D:D:D:D:D i gaurentee
October 7th, 2006 at 8:53 am
We need a prince of persia 4 can u please do that for me
October 10th, 2006 at 9:01 am
Yea i would Really like to play the new Prince Of Persia .. wich i hope it would be .. the first three parts were awseom … and i can tell that the next one will be Greater than the other ones :D ..
October 12th, 2006 at 5:03 pm
I am sick and tired of people saying that Johny Depp and Angelina Jolie should play The Prince and Fara. NO NO NO NO NO! that is exactly the kind of attitude that has ruined so many other video game movies. If you really want Johny and Angelina then go make a comedy flick about what happens to The Prince and Fara once they have been married for ten or so years, other wise it just wouldn’t work.
Thank you, have a nice day.
October 18th, 2006 at 10:53 pm
Well I think at this piont it’s pretty much out of John’s hands and Bruckhiemer is the one we should be trying to contact.(BTW what happend to his forums? They havent been updated in months!)
October 29th, 2006 at 2:36 pm
I think david k. zandi should so be the prince,and I should be farah.
October 31st, 2006 at 5:52 am
wat up jone any news? come on tell us somthing AND FOR FUCK SAKE DO NOT USE NON-PERSIANS IN THE MOVIE PLEASE I BEG YOU THANX
November 2nd, 2006 at 3:09 am
Mr.August i do not know if you are able to choose the people who are cast but what if i tell you i have a friend who is an actor has done theatre since he was a kid and does television acting at the moment, who looks very very similar to the prince from the last two video games, has the body and age of the prince in sands of time and his life long dream(since he played the first pop on the Pc in the 90’s) is to play the prince. he is not famous or anything but he is realy good.this could like superman returns using an unknown actor as superman.you have my e mail so tell me what you think and i can give you some pictures of him
November 4th, 2006 at 12:11 pm
Im the boxer muammad ali.I didnt play prince of persia but my son did.He really liked the game. Please make a fourth one.And make a movie.
November 8th, 2006 at 7:33 pm
You guys said you are gona be done soon. when its done,can post the script in this web so people can read it -_-
November 13th, 2006 at 2:09 pm
Salam to everyone! Please check the following link and tell your opinion how suitable this persian (young, but talented) would be for the Prince of Persia!!! I think he’s quite something (see the videos). And besides, acting is exactly what he want’s to do! :D http://www.raminsohrab.com
November 17th, 2006 at 5:37 am
i has been 3 fucken years that i have been waiting for this movie i think you lot are just fucken with the pop fans beacuse i have heard nothing from you for a very long time so unless i hear somthing very soon i will hack this fucken website this is the last warning (joke)
anyway you lot are really making me angrey
November 23rd, 2006 at 7:28 pm
When you guys having auditions for the movie??
November 28th, 2006 at 3:16 am
does anyone noe the exact release dat im a huge prince of persia fan i live and breath for da game so if u can help be much apreciated
November 28th, 2006 at 9:41 pm
Just a thought but seeing as how Disney is producing this I seem to think that they will wait until they end Pirates of the Carribbean, and then making the Prince their next action Trilogy in the follow year… thats how Disney operates you know…
December 6th, 2006 at 9:38 am
i think that prince of persia is probably the best game i have ever played with poignant music and lovely gameplay. i am really excited, and eagerly await the release of Prince of Persia Sands of Time.
December 8th, 2006 at 10:39 pm
When are the auditions starting??
December 11th, 2006 at 7:36 pm
Dear John, I have only just found out that there is a plan to make an adaptation of the Prince of Persia: Sands of Time. Giving that this is my utmost favourite game of all time – and I always hoped that it would be picked up as a film – I am over the moon. The one thing I do recommend is that the lead actor should be professional in both martial arts and parkour, as this is a HUGE element of the game, that should be translated into the film. If you need some inspiration for writing this element of the script, then I recommend you check out the recent Tony Jaa films: Ong Bak & Tom Yum Goong (Warrior King), also check the talents of the people on these websites: http://www.teamryouko.com http://www.chasearmitage.co.uk and http://www.urbanfreeflow.com I feel good knowing that the script for the film is in the hands of a great writer, such as yourself, and look forward to seeing the outcome. I know that you don’t have alot of say in casting – which is still a long way off – but if you could put across the idea of Mark Dacascos as the Prince (see the film “Drive” to see his potential), and possibly Mallika Sherawat as Farrah (check out “The Myth” – which can also give a few ideas for action scenes – and also maybe an idea on the “time” element of the film, changing back and forth from ancient past to present). It would be an honour if you could give me some feedback on these ideas sometime – which I know is precious!! (time that is!) Thank you in anticipation! Yours Faithfully, Paulie!
December 14th, 2006 at 6:53 pm
Dear John,
I am very interested in auditioning for this movie. I have been waiting for the Prince of Persia to be made into film for a long time and I just read today that it was being developed. I have been practicing parkour for about 2 and half years. I am also a skilled fencer, having served as captain of both the foil and saber teams at my university. I also have experience in horseback riding and archery. I am Iranian-American, and fluent in Farsi. If you could let me know what steps to take to become a part of this film, I would greatly appreciate it.
Thank you, Nabil
December 26th, 2006 at 8:04 am
Prince of Persia gave me an interest 2 play games thereafter. i suggest the the creaters thats the ubisoft must definitely bring the hero again into action.. he should be a legend but a living legend forever the prince must return…
January 1st, 2007 at 12:25 pm
not realy, but he is gay, no news about nething i think they should hurry up, if not i will direct it, it will be awsome
January 2nd, 2007 at 5:04 am
Hello, Im an experianced stage actor looking to get into this movie. I have played in sevearal plays that involved swords, one of wich was “Slave of Duty” or AKA Pirates of Penzance” I look the part of the Prince, and take direction very well. please consider me for the part http://img169.imageshack.us/my.php?image=princeofpersia004nx9.jpg
January 2nd, 2007 at 8:53 pm
i think johnny depp would be a good choice for the prince. but please dont choose orlando bloom!!
January 2nd, 2007 at 8:57 pm
he is the only white person i think could do the job, other than him the prince has to be persian
January 2nd, 2007 at 8:59 pm
oh and please please!!! dont cast angelina jolie as fara it’s not going to work pick someone else!
January 6th, 2007 at 1:45 am
It would be interesting to see who plays what, some how i doubt that Agelina will be cast for a movie like this, that would be a bit lame. Remember we all have something in common and thats that we enjoyed the game’s story (it was brilliant) I really hope that this movie will not focus on political issues and race, bla bla… I come from a country that really goes overboard with their racial issues and quite frankly i’m really bored of it and I’m almost certain that I’m not the only one, it would be nice to have a movie that does not have a huge number of people bringing it down for the choice of actors etc(although, i think that would be wishful thinking…) what’s important with the Prince of Persia movie, is the STORY, thats what got us ALL attracted to it the first place.
January 6th, 2007 at 8:24 am
Ok…i was unaware that you had requested not to recive auditions or head shots. for that I apologize. However i am still interested in auditioning for this movie. So if you could perhaps help me find the right people, so that i can audition. id apreciate it. Thank you.
January 6th, 2007 at 12:55 pm
i realy think that the running up walls and amasing acribatic feats he has to perform was a big part of the movie his abilities were one of the main things i liked about the game. i dont think people would like the movie as much if it’s just sword fighting. and are you planning to put the sand creatures in the movie, and will most the movie take place in azads palace like the game?
January 7th, 2007 at 7:08 pm
sorry i mean a part of the game not the movie lol.
January 7th, 2007 at 8:14 pm
REZA GOLZAR is the only perfect actor to play the Prince of Persia .
Links below reveal a real Prince of Persia with both the looks and talent:
http://www.tehrandata.com/Movie/Descktop/mohammad-reza-golzar5.jpg
http://tehrandata.com/Movie/Descktop/mohammad-reza-golzar-3.jpg
http://www.rezagolzar.com/home.htm
January 14th, 2007 at 2:38 pm
Hi there 1st i’m so sorry…coz some of iranian in this site use the french.(I’m Iranian 2) 2nd Ahriman y u speak like this…have u ever heard about being polite? and y do u think that boy “M.Golzar” can play tha Prince Role…u saud he’s good actor…r u out of ur mind? he is as bad as a ur language. 3rd In my opinion If they make it like LOTR in 3 parts and only in CGI with help of the animators of the game the result will be hell of the movie.and plz who broght this story line…it’s not related 2 the game in any aspects. atleast follow the gist of the game.
good luck
January 15th, 2007 at 1:22 pm
i think to that UBISOFT must begin making a new game with the prinse becose the gamers have never seen suck marveles gameplay before and such grate story i realy hope that prinse of persia the sands of time movie be released soon as posible i realy hope so !!!!