Al Ansari drew inspiration from Gulf traditions and old superstitions. The plot follows a husband entering a second marriage, only to see his family life spiral into terror as the new wife reveals a mysterious, supernatural side. By transforming cultural myths about sorcery in marriage into a chilling reality on screen, Al Ansari created a narrative rooted in the region yet accessible to global audiences.

Since Zinzana, the director focused on production and television projects, contributing to titles like Hwjn, Scales, Netflix’s Paranormal, and Kaboos on Starzplay. Yet the desire to return to directing never faded. This long pause gave him maturity and perspective, allowing him to refine his voice as a filmmaker. In his words, true fulfillment lies behind the camera, and The Vile marks his rediscovery of that passion.

Though co-produced with U.S. company Spooky Pictures, Al Ansari ensured the film stayed authentic to Gulf society. Dialogues and family dynamics echo everyday regional life, while still offering Western audiences a fresh cultural lens. This duality strengthens the film authentic for Arab viewers and intriguingly different for international audiences.

Backed by Image Nation Abu Dhabi and international horror producers like Steven Schneider and Roy Lee, the project was designed for global distribution. The Vile has secured U.S. release and is set to premiere at the London Film Festival before its UAE cinema debut on October 30, perfectly timed for Halloween. This milestone makes it the first Emirati film with such international rollout.

The director emphasizes psychological horror over political or symbolic themes. His goal is to create lingering unease an experience that stays long after leaving the theater. While hinting that future projects may lean darker and bloodier, inspired by Saw or The Loved Ones, he remains committed to stories grounded in Gulf culture. Today, Al Ansari stands as both filmmaker and family man, channeling his life journey into more mature, resonant storytelling.

With The Vile, Majid Al Ansari proves that Emirati cinema can hold its own on global stages. It is a film that blends cultural authenticity with cinematic ambition, positioning the UAE as a serious player in international horror and psychological thrillers.