Sizzle Studios Announces Historical Epic "Empire of Sand" with Acclaimed Director Ang Lee

Sizzle Studios is proud to announce its latest project, "Empire of Sand," a sweeping historical epic to be directed by the legendary Ang Lee. This ambitious film will chronicle the rise and fall of the ancient city of Petra, exploring themes of power, culture clash, and the enduring human spirit against the backdrop of the harsh Arabian desert. Set in the 1st century BCE, "Empire of Sand" will follow the story of Aretas, a visionary Nabataean king who transformed Petra from a humble caravan stop into a thriving metropolis.

The film promises to be a visual feast, showcasing the breathtaking rock-cut architecture of Petra and the intricate trade networks that made it a crucial crossroads of the ancient world. "Ang Lee's unparalleled ability to blend intimate human drama with grand spectacle makes him the perfect director for this project," said Thomas Reeves, President of Production at Sizzle Studios. "We're honored to work with him to bring this fascinating period of history to life." The film will be shot on location in Jordan, with the support of the Royal Film Commission of Jordan.

Sizzle is committed to authenticity, employing historians and archaeologists as consultants and casting actors of Middle Eastern descent in key roles. Oscar-winning cinematographer Roger Deakins has signed on to capture the stark beauty of the desert landscape, while production designer Hannah Beachler will recreate the ancient city in meticulous detail."Empire of Sand" represents Sizzle's most significant investment in historical filmmaking to date, with a budget of $200 million.

The studio sees this as an opportunity to create a timeless epic that will educate as well as entertain, bringing a crucial but often overlooked period of history to global audiences. Production is set to begin in October 2025, with a targeted release date of December 2026, positioning "Empire of Sand" as a major awards contender and holiday season blockbuster.