Sayed Badreya

Born:1 Mei 1957

Place of Birth:Port Said, Egypt

Known For:Acting

Biography

Sayed Badreya, an Egyptian-born actor and filmmaker, has carved a remarkable path in Hollywood, realizing his childhood dream of starring in major films such as "The Insider," "Three Kings," and "Independence Day." Growing up in Port Said in poverty, Badreya found solace and inspiration in the magical world of cinema, where he envisioned himself becoming a part of the storytelling magic that captivated him.

After pursuing his passion for filmmaking at New York University, Badreya made his way to Hollywood, where he began his career as an assistant to acclaimed actor and director Anthony Perkins. His determination to share the Arabic-American narrative with the world led him to establish his own production company, Zoom In Focus. Through this platform, he directed and produced impactful projects like the documentary "Saving Egyptian Film Classics" and the award-winning short film "The Interrogation."

In 2007, Badreya took on his first leading role in the English-language film "American East," which he also co-wrote, showcasing his versatility and talent as a storyteller. The following year marked a breakthrough for him, as he captivated audiences with his portrayal of Abu Bakaar in the blockbuster hit "Iron Man," alongside Robert Downey Jr. He continued to showcase his range by portraying a comedic Palestinian cab driver in "You Don't Mess with the Zohan" opposite Adam Sandler.

Badreya's career continued to flourish as he landed roles in a diverse range of films, including "El traspatio," "Movie 43," "The Three Stooges," "The Dictator," and "Just Like a Woman," collaborating with acclaimed directors and actors across various genres. His foray into the world of video games with "Uncharted 3," where he played Ramses the Great Pirate Captain, further highlighted his versatility as a performer.

Beyond his work on the big screen, Badreya has also made significant contributions as an actor, Arabic dialect coach, and Islamic technical advisor on projects like "Path to 9/11," showcasing his dedication to authenticity and cultural representation in the industry. His efforts to elevate Arab-American voices in Hollywood have garnered attention from major media outlets worldwide, solidifying his reputation as a trailblazer in the industry.

Recently, Badreya completed his second leading role in the New York independent feature "Cargo," delving into complex themes surrounding human trafficking, and starred opposite Oscar-nominated actress Melissa Leo in the film "The Space Between," directed by Travis Fine. His commitment to storytelling that resonates with audiences on a global scale continues to drive his passion for creating impactful and memorable cinematic experiences.

Images

Filmografi

Akting

Iron Man

Abu Bakaar

2008

After being held captive in an Afghan cave, billionaire engineer Tony Stark creates a unique weaponized suit of armor to fight evil.

Independence Day

Arab Pilot

1996

Strange phenomena surface around the globe. The skies ignite. Terror races through the world's major cities. As these extraordinary events unfold, it becomes increasingly clear that a force of incredible magnitude has arrived. Its mission: total annihilation over the Fourth of July weekend. The last hope to stop the destruction is an unlikely group of people united by fate and unimaginable circumstances.

The Dictator

Omar

2012

The heroic story of a dictator who risks his life to ensure that democracy would never come to the country he so lovingly oppressed.

Shallow Hal

Doctor Sayed

2001

After taking his dying father's advice, Hal dates only the embodiments of female physical perfection. But that all changes after Hal has an unexpected run-in with self-help guru Tony Robbins. Intrigued by Hal's shallowness, Robbins hypnotizes him into seeing the beauty that exists even in the least physically appealing women. Hal soon falls for Rosemary, but he doesn't realize that his gorgeous girlfriend is actually a 300-pound-not-so-hottie.

Movie 43

Large Man (segment "Truth or Dare")

2013

A series of interconnected short films are the backdrop for a maniac screenwriter who pitches insane storylines featuring some of Hollywood's biggest and brightest.

You Don't Mess with the Zohan

Hamdi

2008

An Israeli counterterrorism soldier with a secretly fabulous ambition to become a Manhattan hairstylist. Zohan's desire runs so deep that he'll do anything -- including faking his own death and going head-to-head with an Arab cab driver -- to make his dreams come true.

True Lies

Arab Terrorist (uncredited)

1994

A fearless, globe-trotting, terrorist-battling secret agent has his life turned upside down when he discovers his wife might be having an affair with a used car salesman while terrorists smuggle nuclear war heads into the United States.

Vanguard

Abati

2020

Covert security company Vanguard is the last hope of survival for an accountant after he is targeted by the world's deadliest mercenary organization.

The Insider

Hezbollah Head Gunman

1999

A research chemist comes under personal and professional attack when he decides to appear in a 60 Minutes exposé on Big Tobacco.

Three Kings

Iraqi Tank Major

1999

A group of American soldiers stationed in Iraq at the end of the Gulf War find a map they believe will take them to a huge cache of stolen Kuwaiti gold hidden near their base, and they embark on a secret mission that's destined to change everything.

The Three Stooges

Orderly

2012

Left on the doorstep of an orphanage run by nuns, three newborn knuckleheads grow up to be finger-poking, nyuk-nyuking janitors named Larry, Curly and Moe. When they learn that financial problems will soon force the only home they've ever known to close, the trio sets out to raise $830,000 in one month. Out in the world for the very first time, the three innocent bumblers become embroiled in a murder plot and find stardom on a TV reality show.

Kingpin

Fatima

1996

After bowler Roy Munson swindles the wrong crowd and is left with a hook for a hand, he settles into impoverished obscurity. That is, until he uncovers the next big thing: an Amish kid named Ishmael. So, the corrupt and the hopelessly naive hit the circuit intent on settling an old score with Big Ern.

Soul Plane

Middle Eastern Passenger

2004

Following a ridiculously awful flight that leads to his pet's death, Nashawn Wade files a lawsuit against the airline, and wins a multimillion-dollar settlement. Determined to create a better flying experience, Nashawn starts his own airline, one that caters to an African-American clientele. Going into business with a tricked-out plane piloted by the smooth Capt. Mack, the airline hits a snag when it has to deal with the family of Elvis Hunkee.

Stuck on You

Assisting Surgeon

2003

In Martha's Vineyard, Mass., conjoined twins Walt and Bob Tenor make the best of their handicap by being the fastest grill cooks in town. While outgoing Walt hopes to one day become a famous actor, shy Bob prefers to stay out of the spotlight. When a fading Hollywood actress, Cher, decides to get her show "Honey and the Beaze" cancelled, she hires Walt -- and his brotherly appendage -- as her costars. But their addition surprisingly achieves the opposite.

Produksi

Executive Decision

Technical Advisor

1996

Terrorists hijack a 747 inbound to Washington D.C., demanding the release of their imprisoned leader. Intelligence expert David Grant (Kurt Russell) suspects another reason and he is soon the reluctant member of a special assault team that is assigned to intercept the plane and hijackers.