As multifaceted as the industry he’s a part of, Junes Zahdi is a rising star, set to illuminate screens like never before with his latest powerful performance in “The Judgment.” A riveting psychological thriller under the able direction of Marwan Mokbel, this film focuses on LGBTQ+ issues, shedding light on the seldom-explored facets of love, identity, and secrecy.
Hailing from a background that instilled in him a strong sense of resilience, Junes found solace in the world of acting, using it as a way for self-expression and emotional release. Born and raised as a Moroccan immigrant in Germany, he often grappled with a sense of not belonging. However, his passion for acting began to take root during his formative years and quickly grew into an undeniable passion that would shape his future endeavors.
His journey transcended geographical boundaries, with pivotal experiences in New York City refining his craft through method acting and earning him recognition in various film festivals for his performance in “The Man Who Killed Castro.” Following his relocation to Los Angeles in 2008, Junes found himself in the heart of the bustling entertainment capital. His talent extended beyond acting as he delved into music collaborations that soared on the charts and choreographed for notable productions like “Ride Along 2.” His artistic endeavors reverberated across various platforms, evidenced by his captivating performances with Jennifer Lopez and his widely popular Youtube content, accumulating over 75 million views.
In “The Judgment,” Zahdi breathes life into Mo, an Egyptian-American who grapples with the complex terrains of his identity. He returns to Egypt with his partner, Hisham, in the wake of a family emergency, posing cautiously as friends in Egypt’s homophobic society. Their homecoming, compelled by family ties, pitches Mo into an anxious and unsettling situation – his secret appears to have preceded him.
Thrust into a precarious mix of danger and deception, Mo discovers witchcraft at his doorstep – an eerie reminder of someone being privy to his secret. Despite presenting himself as an urbane American atheist, unfettered by superstitions, he finds himself inevitably drawn into a maelstrom of fear and shame. This unearthly encounter rekindles childhood horrors, sparking off his deeply-seated religious fears. He dreads the exposure of his inner turmoil to Hisham, who is oblivious of the fact that Mo grapples with the perceived sinfulness of their relationship.
Gradually, a web of dread weaves itself around Mo’s psyche, as the day of judgment he anticipated, the god he resented, the mother who antagonized him, and an increasing catalogue of ‘sins,’ start to haunt him through the spectral presence of witchcraft. It subsequently leads him to a confrontation he had always feared. Despite these turbulent undercurrents, the overarching question remains – will Mo have the resilience to fight back and ultimately secure his liberation?
Speaking of “The Judgment,” Zahdi reveals, “Essentially, it is a forbidden love story and a family tragedy about a young man who is shunned or even cursed by his own family just for being who he is. We shot most of it in Lebanon during one of the country’s hardest times. All of what was going on at that time only fueled us all creatively. It’s all only made the performances and the film better for it. All the walls came down. As men, we are raised to suppress all trauma and any emotion, even as little boys. This film just allowed me to drop all of that bs and be 100% open. It’s a beautiful and powerful, universal story that I am very fortunate to have been a part of. As artists, we are very aware of those once-in-a-career type of projects – and this is definitely it.”
“The Judgment” is a testament to Zahdi’s fierce commitment to his craft. It demonstrates his consuming dedication to shape and give voice to Mo’s character. As an actor, he not only emotes the struggles of his character but embodies them, illuminating their depth, complexity, and humanity. It is easy to see that Zahdi has emerged as a force to be reckoned with in his industry. His portrayal of such a nuanced and unconventional narrative indicates a heightened sense of empathy and understanding, evoking a groundswell of appreciation.
Zahdi’s work is set against the backdrop of the harsh realities of society, injecting a dose of soulful authenticity into each scene. His unflinching portrayal of love in the face of looming threats, fear, and societal norms is nothing short of awe-inspiring. With “The Judgment,” Zahdi leapfrogs to an elite pedestal of actors who are redefining and recasting the traditional contours of acting and storytelling.
Junes Zahdi continues to enthrall audiences with his superlative performances, leaving a charismatic imprint on the global acting scene. His dedication to his craft and his eye for the deep, hidden layers of human emotions promises a meteoric rise in the world of acting. You can follow Zahdi’s cinematic journey on his Instagram @juneszahdi. Keep an eye out for this name, as it continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of cinema.
