Saudi Star Nasser Al-Qasabi Returns with Darkly Comic Drama “February Black” Exploring 2006 Stock Market Crash
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia - Saudi Arabia’s streaming platform Shahid has unveiled the first official poster for its upcoming series, “February black,” marking a highly anticipated return for comedic icon Nasser Al-Qasabi. The series promises a biting, yet entertaining, look back at the devastating 2006 Saudi stock market crash, an event still vividly remembered – and often painfully – by a generation of Saudis.the poster itself offers a striking visual dichotomy: Al-Qasabi is depicted in two contrasting personas. one portrays a traditionally dressed Saudi man, complete with ghutra and iqal headwear, while the other showcases a modern, contemporary look. This duality, according to Shahid, hints at the multifaceted roles Al-Qasabi will embody in the ten-episode series.
This marks Al-qasabi’s first major project in two years, following his appearance in the 2023 Ramadan installment of the long-running and beloved satirical series, “Tash Ma Tash: Tash Al-Awda.” His absence has been keenly felt by fans, making “February Black” one of the most eagerly awaited releases in the Kingdom.
A Nation’s Financial Trauma Revisited
“february Black” isn’t simply a past retelling; it’s a deep dive into a period of significant economic hardship for Saudi Arabia. In February 2006, the Tadawul, the Saudi stock exchange, experienced a dramatic and prolonged collapse. The crash wiped out billions of dollars in wealth, leaving countless families financially ruined and triggering widespread social unrest. While official figures are difficult to pinpoint, estimates suggest the market lost over 50% of its value within a matter of months.
The series aims to blend black comedy with social commentary, offering viewers both entertainment and a platform for reflection on the repercussions of the crisis. The narrative is rooted in real events, drawing directly from the experiences of Saudis who lived through the turmoil.
“The work re-presents this experience with a sarcastic and critical spirit,” Shahid stated in a press release. This approach is crucial, as the 2006 crash remains a sensitive topic for many, representing a loss of trust in financial institutions and a period of widespread anxiety.
A Stellar Cast and Proven Creative Team
Al-Qasabi leads a strong ensemble cast including veteran Saudi actors Habib Al-Habib, Bashir Al-Ghunaim, Sanaa Bakr Younis, and Khaled Al-Farraj. Rising stars Lulu Al-tamimi and Izzat Al-Majul also feature prominently.behind the camera, the series benefits from the talents of writer Nasser Al-azaz and director Amr Salah, an Egyptian filmmaker known for his ability to seamlessly blend humor with poignant social observations.Salah’s directorial style, characterized by “simplicity of depth in the comedy,” is expected to give “February Black” a unique and compelling flavor.
Al-Qasabi: A Gulf Comedy Legend
Nasser Al-Qasabi is a cornerstone of Gulf comedy, achieving widespread recognition for his work on “Tash Ma Tash,” a series that ran for over two decades and tackled social and political issues with sharp wit and satire. “February black” represents a new chapter in his career, demonstrating his willingness to tackle more complex and emotionally resonant themes.
while Shahid has not yet announced a firm release date, actress Sanaa Bakr Younis hinted on Instagram that the series is slated to premiere sometime in 2025. This announcement has further fueled anticipation among Saudi and Gulf audiences, eager to revisit a pivotal moment in their recent history through the lens of one of the region’s most beloved performers.
Key Takeaways & Context:
The 2006 Crash: The Saudi stock market crash of 2006 was one of the most significant economic events in the kingdom’s history. It exposed vulnerabilities in the financial system and led to increased government regulation.
“Tash Ma Tash” Legacy: “Tash Ma Tash” remains a cultural touchstone in the Gulf region, known for its fearless satire and its ability to spark national conversations. Al-Qasabi’s involvement lends ”February Black” significant cultural weight.
* shahid’s Growing Influence: Shahid, owned by MBC Group, is rapidly becoming a dominant force in the Arabic-language streaming market, investing heavily in original content and attracting top talent.
