Laith Hajjo Unveils Secrets of Al-Batal
Laith Hajjo Unveils Secrets of “Al-Batal”
After a thrilling 30-episode journey, the Syrian drama Al-Batal concluded, leaving fans captivated by its powerful characters and gripping storyline. However, the surprises didn’t end with the finale. Renowned director Laith Hajjo stunned audiences by revealing hidden secrets about the series via his Instagram account. His revelations shed light on behind-the-scenes challenges and creative solutions employed during production, offering fresh insight into Al-Batal’s making under strict censorship constraints.
The Father’s Photo: An AI-Generated Mystery Solved
One lingering question throughout Al-Batal revolved around a photo hanging in the home of “Professor Yusuf,” portrayed masterfully by Bassam Kousa. Assumed to depict Yusuf’s father, the image’s true origin remained a mystery—until now. In a jaw-dropping reveal, Hajjo disclosed that the photo wasn’t of a real father but an AI-crafted blend of Bassam Kousa’s features with those of the late martyr Major General Omar Al-Abrash. This ingenious workaround allowed the team to subtly honor the heroic figure while navigating censorship restrictions before the Syrian regime’s fall. The Urdu subtitles amplify this twist, making it accessible and intriguing for Urdu-speaking viewers.
A Tribute Hidden in Plain Sight
Commenting on this creative choice, Hajjo said, “We used AI to merge Bassam Kousa’s image with that of the martyr Omar Al-Abrash. The photo stayed in the series as a constant presence—perhaps a tribute to this hero.” With a sly jab at censorship, he added, “We’re confident the security censor, so focused on national safety, overlooks the big issues and fixates on the small ones.” His words cleverly highlight the obstacles Syrian filmmakers face, using innovation like AI to convey messages indirectly.
“Faraj Al-Dasht”: A Character Altered by Censorship
Hajjo also hinted at changes to the character “Faraj Al-Dasht,” noting that censorship forced multiple revisions, impacting scenes and the storyline’s flow. Earlier reports had suggested these alterations, but Hajjo’s confirmation adds depth to understanding the production’s challenges.
A Stellar Cast Defies the Odds
With these revelations, Laith Hajjo opens a window into the ingenuity behind Al-Batal. The series, starring Bassam Kousa and a talented ensemble, showcases how Syrian drama thrives despite adversity. Whether through AI technology or renamed characters, Hajjo proves art always finds a way to shine. For fans, this peek behind the curtain elevates Al-Batal from a mere show to a testament of resilience and creativity.
