James R | On 25, May 2022

Swedish-Lebanese actor Fares Fares will make his directorial debut with A Day and a Half for Netflix.

The actor, who has appeared in Westworld and Chernobyl, is perhaps best known for playing the role of Assad in the Department Q films. Now, he’s stepping behind the helm for a road trip thriller inspired by true events.

The film will star Alexej Manvelov (Chernobyl) and Alma Pöysti (Tove) as Artan and his ex-wife Louise. Determined to be reunited with his daughter, Alexej takes Louise hostage and embarks on a emotionally charged road trip with her and police officer Lukas. The journey takes them through rural Sweden during a hot summer, all while having police on their heels.

Fares Fares, who co-wrote the film with Peter Smirnakos, will also co-star as Lukas.

He says: “I’m really looking forward for this story to unfold on screen and feel privileged to have some of the best cast and team on board to make that happen.”

Johan Hedman is attached to the film as executive producer. Christina Legkova will serve as a producer on the film, alongside Hanna Lundmark. 

Claire Willats, Netflix’s Director of Film, Nordics: “We are honored that Netflix will be the home of the first film directed by Fares Fares and are excited to work with such a talented team behind and in front of the camera. A Day and a Half is in essence an intimate story about loss, lies, betrayals, love, prejudice and family –  packaged in a tense thriller format.”

The Swedish-language film will start filming later this month for a 2023 release.

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