Egypt’s Mohammed Tarek talks DC Studios’ ‘Blue Beetle’ Arabic dub experience
DUBAI: The official first superhero film to arrive on the big screen from James Gunn and Peter Safran-led DC Universe (DCU), “Blue Beetle,” has been a big hit with its storytelling and comedy.
Based on the comic book character of the same name, the film follows the story of Jamie Reyes (Xolo Mariduena) as he discovers his new abilities and overcomes corporate evil with his family.
The movie, currently in theaters, has made an impact in the Arab world for being the first ever live-action Arabic dub of a Hollywood film to release in cinemas.
Providing the Arabic dub for one of the key characters in the film is Saudi Arabia-born Egyptian social media celebrity Mohammed Tarek. He told Arab News: “The experience this time around was very fun. Firstly, it’s an honor to be a part of an amazing movie. Secondly, it’s an even bigger honor to be part of the first live-action dub in the Middle East to be shown in the cinema.”
In the flick, Tarek voices Dr. Sanchez. “He plays a very important role in the master plan of the main villain, Victoria Kord,” he said.
Tarek – who has 4.9 million followers on TikTok – previously voiced Aquaman in the Arabic-dubbed version of Warner Bros. 2022 summer animation blockbuster “DC League of Super-Pets.”
“My first time working with DC, I was very nervous even though the whole team made sure I felt comfortable. However, this time around I was actually very excited to be a part of this, so the nerves weren’t there at all. And we had food after recording so I was very, very happy,” he added.
The influencer – who has a special love for voiceover work – also talked about the preparation involved taking on dubbing work.
He said: “Since this is a live-action movie, you as voice actor will need to understand the actual actor’s mannerisms to be able to portray the same exact emotions and express it in a different language.
“I prepared by studying the actor’s behavior and line delivery during the movie, and actually expressing it in my own way.”
Tarek, who is also currently taking workshops in acting and more steps toward building an acting career, is sure that “Blue Beetle” will connect with an Arab audience.
“‘Blue Beetle’ will definitely appeal to Arab audiences since it’s a superhero for everyone. And Jaime, Blue Beetle himself, doesn’t work alone, his whole family gets involved and us as Arabs we love including family in every single thing we do.
“Plus, the movie has such a fresh sense of humor, and the Arab audience will definitely fall in love.
“I love how Blue Beetle didn’t hold anything back and made sure his family were always safe and happy.
“I’m such a family guy and I love to include my family in everything so that really made me fall in love with how relatable Blue Beetle is,” he added.
