Hello everyone!

My name is Elsa Ashraf, I am a screenwriting student at USC. I am excited to share my latest project with you, a short film titled, "Ifrit." I am making this short film to demystify narratives about Muslims, and increase awareness and representation of our people.

About the Film

"Ifrit" is a satire-horror story about three self-absorbed influencers who crash in a remote Middle Eastern desert. They unwittingly awaken an ancient spirit, forcing them to confront their superficiality and survive a supernatural reckoning.

Why This Film Matters

Stories from the Middle East are vastly underrepresented in Hollywood. According to a recent study, less than 1% of films produced in Hollywood feature Middle Eastern protagonists or stories. This project provides a unique opportunity to showcase these rich, untold stories and highlight the talent of diverse filmmakers.

The short film is a thrill ride that sheds light on the ongoing impacts of colonialism and the exploitation of third-world countries, as well as critique the ignorance of those who use media to stereotype and "other" non-Western cultures.

Though funny, this film is more than just entertainment; it's a crucial step towards breaking down stereotypes and building bridges. By supporting "Ifrit," you're helping to create a space for diverse voices and stories that challenge the status quo and highlight the rich, complex realities of Muslim communities. Our goal is to bring attention to important issues like colonialism and cultural exploitation while providing a fresh horror-comedy experience.

STORY

When their jeep crashes in a mythical village, influencers Serenity, Jenna and Huntyr run into siblings Ahmed and Aleeza, who seek to help them. In return... they are ridiculed for their cultural traditions. They are all soon caught in a supernatural maze, as they face off with Ifrit, a demon from middle eastern mythology. Ifrit seeks justice against those who exploit and colonize the land, and protects Ahmed and Aleeza's heritage from being mocked and exploited by the outsiders.

Stellar Team Bios and Credits

We are fortunate to have an incredibly talented and diverse team bringing "Ifrit" to life. This project is a significant step for diverse students like myself to achieve gender parity in filmmaking and showcase untold stories from underrepresented communities.

Director: Reynaldo Rodriguez

is an accomplished filmmaker in various roles, including assistant director, producer, and director. Notable film credits include Almost Home, Change, Old Dads, Tell It Like a Woman, Critical Thinking, The Beach Bum, Baywatch, Moonlight, Ride Along 2, Iron Man 3, Pain & Gain, and Step Up Revolution. His notable television credits include Will Trent, Class of '09, Unstable, 9-1-1: Lone Star, Not Dead Yet, Mayans M.C., Murderville, Shameless, Ballers, Grand Hotel, Euphoria, Insecure, Shooter, and Burn Notice.

Director of Photography (DP): Oliver Ponce

is a seasoned professional in the camera and electrical department, as well as an accomplished cinematographer and director. His film credits include Drag Me to Hell, Supercross, The Zodiac, xXx: State of the Union, and Mean Creek. His television credits include Home Economics, This Is Us, Rebel, The Kominsky Method, American Horror Story, Code Black, Barry, CSI: Cyber, and CSI: NY.

Producer - David Zoeller

is a skilled and versatile filmmaker with extensive experience. As a drone operator, he has contributed to projects like Stranger Things, Ozark, The Orville, 9-1-1: Lone Star, Star Trek: Picard, Bosch, American Horror Story, and Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan. He has also worked on series like NCIS: Los Angeles, Good Trouble, Delilah, Fear the Walking Dead, Ratched, The Outsider, Louey & Bri TV, Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan, Goliath, and The Politician.

Screenwriter - Elsa Ashraf

is currently a B.F.A. Screenwriting student at USC. Elsa has written and directed films screened at PBS KCAT TV and Comcast, winning awards for acting and script at SMASH’n Film Festival and she received the Primetime TV Club award. She recently worked as a Script Intern at Entertainment Labs where she conducted script coverage for over 25 features and pilot episodes, and coordinated talent for projects at Apple, Showtime, Peacock, and Netflix.

A warm thank you!

Elsa