Abu Dhabi, June 3, 2021: Following its great success in the past two seasons, the much-awaited third season of the series The Platform has premiered globally on NETFLIX, as well as Abu Dhabi TV. The series is brought by FilmGate and Al Kalema Productions.
The Emirati production, brought by FilmGate and Al Kalema, has been a hit from the very start, as it brings together a star-studded cast of some of the Middle East’s top actors. The series is produced by Emirati Mansoor Al Yabhouni Al Dhaheri, written by Syrian Hozan Akko, and directed by Egyptian Yasser Sami. In its third season, The Platform presents more exciting and interesting events as it brings along a vast array of surprises, with the plot thickening as COVID-19 brings the world to a halt, while the team continues to drive forward on their truth-seeking mission.
In gearing up for the third season, FilmGate organized a virtual meet and greet with the cast of the show, moderated by the renowned Arab journalist Rabie Huneidi. The cast spoke about their characters on the show, and shared their personal experiences during the production process.
The discussion saw the actors highlight the social, cultural, and theatrical elements that went into the production as one of the factors that have led to the success of the show.
Emirati artist Ahmed Al Jasmi during the virtual meet said: “I am delighted to have worked with such an incredible group of actors from all over the Arab world. There is no doubt that the Gulf and Arab productions had to shift from the traditional formats, which saw shows previously having thirty episodes. As an actor and producer, I feel we must focus on introducing interesting content that fits the growing popularity of digital platforms.
“I am proud to have work with the talented Emirati, Mansoor Al Dhaheri, as his new ideas and great effort behind the show that has led to an Emirati production reaching a global audience and becoming so popular. This will help encourage others to develop shows that will resonate with the global audience provided by digital platforms.”
Syrian actor Maxim Khalil commented on his role in the series, said: “It has been a unique experience working with FilmGate, and I would like to thank them for all the support he provided to us all. I am excited at the premiere of the third season, and hope everyone enjoys it.”
Saudi star Abdul Mohsen AlNemer while thanking his colleagues for the opportunity to work on the show said: “One of the aspects I found beautiful about the show was the intent of to bring together artists from across the region and create a show that would cater to the world and not just the Arab audiences. The writer knit a brilliant and intricate storyline, which received praise from fans everywhere.”
Syrian star Bassem Yakhour said: “I joined the show during the second season, after having been a big fan of the first season. I was proud to be part of such a well-thought show, which brought together a series of unique characters who are an integral to the show’s storyline. The character of Ramadan that I play embodies a certain school of thought, and it raises an important issue that focuses on how destructive thoughts can distort societies.”
Emirati artist Yaser Al Neyadi commented: “When I read the script, I was amazed by the deep cultural and social insights that were incorporated into the show. The connection between the characters and the events taking place was beautifully written. It inspired me even more to deliver the best performance possible with my character.
“My experience with FilmGate has been excellent, and I applaud the international standards that it adheres to and the artistic goals it aspires to achieve. I look forward to seeing more shows like The Platform that can promote the content from the Arab region to the rest of the world.”
Syrian actor, Samer Ismail, who plays one of the leading roles on the show, said: “The Platform has taken the Emirati and Arab production standards to the next level. It will lead the way for more artistic work that will reach a global audience.”
Syrian actress Maisoun Abu Asaad said: “I was a fan of the show from the beginning and I jumped at the opportunity of being able to join the cast for the third season. Despite the circumstances of the global pandemic and the challenges it imposed, it was a great opportunity for me to part of the show due to its great content and the powerful message that it carries. My experience during the production has truly one of the best experiences of my career so far.”
Tunisian actor Ghanem Al Zrelli said: “When I saw the script, I was pleasantly surprised by how star-packed the cast was. I had an enriching experience working with so many talented actors from across the Arab world. The script, direction and production behind The Platform are on par with all the notable international shows. The Platform uplifts the value of Arab productions and is one of the most important shows that has presented the culture of the region appropriately with in-depth insights.”
TV presenter and actress Mahira Abdel Aziz said: “The quality of television has improved generally in the region and I have been part of many shows. I received many offers to act but I am incredibly careful when it comes to choosing a project. I am conscious regarding this as I am worried about the impact it would have on the success I have already achieved in my career. But when presented with this opportunity, I was amazed at the innovative presentation of the story and the names of the great stars already involved in the show. I had a lot of scenes with Abdul Mohsen AlNemer and I thank him for all the support he provided making it a memorable experience for me.”
Syrian actor Shadi Al-Safadi sharing his experience working on The Platform, said: “When a project is well-planned and executed right from the script, direction and production, an actor automatically makes a great effort to contribute to the storytelling process. It has been a pleasure working with FilmGate, who treated every cast and crew member with the utmost respect and appreciated the work done by everyone involved.”
The Syrian artist, Reham Al-Qassar, sharing her experience working on the show said: “It was a beautiful experience working on the show and one really close to my heart as the camaraderie between the cast and crew was great. I enjoyed essaying my character as I felt it resonates with a lot of my fans.”
Syrian actress Maram Ali said: “I would like to thank FilmGate for the opportunity to work on this show and thank everyone involved – the writer, director and my colleagues for making it a memorable experience. When I saw the script, I had a great desire to join the team as I saw the fresh and innovative storytelling it aimed to portray and the magnitude of production. I play the role of “Yara”, a character that showcases all the aspects of the fast-paced life we all live now.”
The rising Emirati star Mad Rabdan, said: “I am passionate about acting and was excited about the character “Hamad” that I would be playing, as it is a character that is relatable to a lot of young people. I have been extremely fortunate to have been able to be part of The Platform at the beginning of my career.”
The series, filmed across various locations in Abu Dhabi within specially built studios, was also the very first Pan-Arab production to reach American platforms such as Crackle, Crackle Plus, Popcornflix, and Truli.
You can watch the full greet and meet with the cast moderated by the journalist Rabie Huneidi on YouTube here – https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=OmFscZJncMY