Asghari, Sharif Jr. Star in New Rom-Com 'Crazy Rich Arabs'

The independent romantic comedy 'Crazy Rich Arabs' is gearing up for production in Los Angeles next week, featuring Sam Asghari and Omar Sharif Jr. in its ensemble cast. This project is separate from the 'Crazy Rich Asians' franchise.

Walid Chaya stars as identical twins Youssef, a musician from Beirut, and Omar, a Hollywood divorce attorney. The narrative follows Youssef's arranged marriage plans to Reema, which are complicated by the discovery of his wealthy twin brother. The brothers eventually swap identities, leading to romantic entanglements and family secrets.

Omar Sharif Jr. plays a charismatic Airbnb host, while newcomer Maya Tannous is cast as a lounge owner. The film's director, Peter Takla, and producer Walid Chaya aim to address the underrepresentation of Middle Eastern and North African talent in Hollywood. Chaya emphasized the film's goal to celebrate Arab culture by centering Arab characters in a story filled with humor and romance, avoiding stereotypes.

The wider cast includes Aron Kader, George Khouri, Kourosh Parsapour, Lara J Barry, and Sarah Siadat. Rawan Chaya will compose the original music. An official release date has not yet been announced.