Hala Matar Compares Her Film Electra to a Blend of ‘Talented Mr. Ripley’ and ‘Saltburn’, Teases Examination of ‘Identity Themes’
Hala Matar made history as the first Bahraini female feature director with her latest film Electra. The indie film, set to premiere at the Oldenburg Film Festival on September 12, follows journalist Dylan (played by co-writer Daryl Wein) and his photographer girlfriend Lucy (Abigail Cowen).
The couple stays with a rockstar (Jack Farthing) and his artist partner (Maria Bakalova). As the days pass, hidden motives behind the facade begin to unravel. The film is a blend of classic Italian cinema and modern storytelling, reminiscent of The Talented Mr. Ripley and Saltburn.
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Matar expressed her desire to explore themes of identity and drew inspiration from The Talented Mr. Ripley while filming. She described the process as resembling a theater production.
When asked about the similarities between Electra, Ripley, and Saltburn, Matar acknowledged the connection. She noted that while Electra was filmed before Saltburn’s release, there are striking thematic and aesthetic parallels.
Electra pays homage to Italian cinema, a passion of the director. Matar, who has been obsessed with Italian filmography, always intended to make a film in Italy. The movie’s beautiful Italian backdrop was inspired by a palazzo they discovered and decided to incorporate into the story.