Rupert Wyatt's "Desert Warrior": "Rise of the Planet of the Apes" Director's $150 Million Epic Finally Arrives After Four-Year Wait; First Trailer Revealed, Anthony Mackie Stars

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Five years after the series adaptation of "The Mosquito Coast," Rupert Wyatt, the acclaimed director behind "Rise of the Planet of the Apes," is finally set to release his epic new film, "Desert Warrior." The movie is slated to hit North American theaters on April 26, and its first trailer has just been unveiled.

The $150 million production of "Desert Warrior" actually wrapped filming back in 2022. However, a lengthy post-production period, coupled with Wyatt's temporary departure due to creative differences, and a prolonged search for a distributor, meant the film's release date was only officially set last month.

Watch the first trailer below: ▼

(Image Source: Vertical)

Wyatt directed "Desert Warrior" from a screenplay he co-wrote with Erica Beeney, who previously collaborated with him on "Captive State," David Self ("The Wolfman"), and Gary Ross, director of "The Hunger Games." The ensemble cast features Anthony Mackie, Sharlto Copley, and Ben Kingsley, among others.

The official synopsis reveals a sweeping tale: A princess defies her tyrannical emperor and flees into the Arabian desert, where she is relentlessly pursued by mercenaries. Through rigorous training, she transforms into a formidable warrior. With the aid of a legendary rogue, she unites warring tribes to launch a desperate, history-altering battle against the oppressive ruler.