Anthony Mackie and Ben Kingsley Face Off in Epic New Action Film ‘Desert Warrior’
If you thought Anthony Mackie was strictly busy flying around the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Captain America or delivering packages in Twisted Metal, think again. He’s taking a major detour into the past, trading his vibranium wings for a sword in the upcoming historical action-epic Desert Warrior. And he is going toe-to-toe with none other than Ben Kingsley.
Directed by Rupert Wyatt (the filmmaker behind Rise of the Planet of the Apes), Desert Warrior transports audiences all the way back to 7th-century Arabia. The plot centers around Princess Hind, played by Aiysha Hart, who bravely defies her fate by refusing to become a concubine for the ruthless, tyrannical Emperor Kisra (Kingsley).
Fleeing deep into the harsh Arabian desert with her father, the princess is relentlessly hunted by the Emperor’s merciless mercenary army. With her future on the line, she is forced to place her trust in a legendary, stoic bandit named Hanzala (Mackie), a mysterious warrior who is harboring secrets of his own.
Together, these unlikely allies must navigate the unforgiving terrain as Hind transforms from a fleeing fugitive into a fearless leader. The tension builds to a boiling point as she unites disparate, warring tribes for a massive, history-changing final stand against the emperor, the legendary Battle of Dhi Qar.
Judging by the trailer, Desert Warrior isn’t holding anything back when it comes to visual spectacle. Reported to have a massive $150 million budget, making it the largest production to ever film in Saudi Arabia, the footage teases everything from fierce sword combat to colossal battle sequences featuring armored elephants and terrifying predators.
The cast is rounded out by Sharlto Copley, Ghassan Massoud, Numan Acar, and Sami Bouajila.
If you are a fan of sweeping historical epics and high-stakes combat, Desert Warrior looks like a cinematic ride you won’t want to miss. The film is officially slated to hit select U.S. theaters in late April. Grab your popcorn and get ready for battle!
Check out the trailer below.
