When I first saw the trailer for “The Wheel of Time,” I was captivated by the direction and wanted to learn more about the filmmaker behind it. That’s when I discovered Sanaa Hamri. I delved into one of her recent interviews, expecting insights on the third season, but it turned out to be about the second season. Nevertheless, I was inspired by what I learned and am eager to share it with you today.
Sanaa Hamri’s journey from directing music videos to becoming a powerhouse in television is nothing short of inspiring. Known for her groundbreaking work, Hamri has seamlessly transitioned from crafting iconic music videos to taking the reins of major TV series like “Empire” and “The Wheel of Time.”
In a recent interview, Hamri reflected on this transition, highlighting how her background in music videos significantly influenced her approach to television. “Music videos taught me so much about visual storytelling and creativity,” she explained. “With shows like ‘Empire’ and ‘The Wheel of Time,’ I found that as an executive producer, I had more control and influence over the narrative and visual direction, which was incredibly fulfilling.”
Hamri’s entry into the fantasy genre with “The Wheel of Time” felt like a natural progression. She credited her experience as a creative director for music videos, which often involved highly stylized content, for preparing her for this role. “Amazon Studios recognized that synergy and brought me on board,” she said. “It’s a genre where I can blend my love for visual storytelling with intricate, epic narratives.”
Season 2 of “The Wheel of Time” dives deeper into the characters’ backstories and explores darker themes. Hamri discussed the importance of maintaining authenticity and intimacy in storytelling, even within an epic fantasy setting. “We tackle issues like trust, freedom, and bodily autonomy, which are very relevant today,” she noted.
One of the highlights of Hamri’s work on “The Wheel of Time” was filming in Morocco, her homeland. “Filming in Morocco was incredible. The country’s topography, from deserts to oceans, is stunning. It was a homecoming for me, and I felt immense pride working on such a significant project in my home country,” she shared.
Looking ahead, Hamri is excited about the future, particularly with the upcoming Season 3 of “The Wheel of Time” and the much-anticipated “Rings of Power” series. “Creating engaging, inclusive content that reflects diverse voices and empowers women is my passion,” she emphasized. “It’s an exciting time in the industry, and I feel very optimistic and heard in this community.”
Sanaa Hamri’s visionary approach and commitment to inclusivity are indeed shaping the future of television. Her work not only entertains but also empowers, reflecting the diverse world we live in. As she continues to break new ground, audiences can look forward to more compelling and inclusive storytelling from this remarkable director.
In a recent interview, Hamri reflected on this transition, highlighting how her background in music videos significantly influenced her approach to television. “Music videos taught me so much about visual storytelling and creativity,” she explained. “With shows like ‘Empire’ and ‘The Wheel of Time,’ I found that as an executive producer, I had more control and influence over the narrative and visual direction, which was incredibly fulfilling.”
