Shivaz Abdulla commonly known as Maaskey (born 6 December 1981) is a Maldivian cinematographer and producer.
Early life and career Shivaz Abdulla's journey into the entertainment industry was greatly influenced by his family's strong musical background, with his aunt Shafeeqa Abdul Latheef and cousin Mariyam Unoosha being notable figures in the field. His career trajectory began at a local shop called "Chaalee", where he dealt with music rolls and discs, igniting his passion for the industry. After three years there, he transitioned to "Audiomart", a well-known local studio, where he gained valuable experience in the world of filmmaking. During his six-year tenure at Audiomart, Abdulla had the opportunity to connect with various cameramen and producers, forming important relationships within the industry.
During this period, he also participated in a workshop organized by Television Maldives, focusing on cinematography and film direction. Encouraged by his newfound knowledge and enthusiasm, he decided to leave his job and venture into the industry. Initially, he started as an assistant to film crews, helping with equipment and setup. Despite facing initial challenges and working in a technician's role, Abdulla persisted, closely observing the work of seasoned cameramen. His breakthrough came when he collaborated with Abdul Faththaah on a music album shoot, which garnered recognition within the industry.
Abdulla commenced his career by working on smaller projects, including films like Dhanthura (2008), Seedhibe (2009), Loabeege Ninja (2010) and for television series including Soora (2008), Mihithah Loabi Dheyshey (2009), Sirrun Hithaa Kulhelaafa (2010). In 2013, his career took a significant leap when he served as the cameraman for Hussain Munawwar's romantic thriller Dhilakani earning him a nomination for Best Cinematography at the Maldives Film Awards. Another notable achievement came with Ali Seezan's action film Ahsham (2014), for which he received the Gaumee Film Award for Best Cinematography. Reviewing the film, Ahmed Nadheem from Avas praised Abdulla's cinematography, citing it as one of the film's standout features, stating, "It is worth mentioning the young talent in the industry, [Maskey] for his brilliant and unconventional cinematic effects".
Abdulla continued to collaborate with Ali Seezan on Andhirikan, where he not only handled the camera work but also served as a co-producer for the film. The film faced various challenges in the pre-production stage, and after only four screenings due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it was withdrawn from theaters.
Filmography Feature film Year Title Producer Cinematographer Notes 2013 Dhilakani Nominated—Maldives Film Award for Best Cinematography 2014 Aniyaa 2014 Insaana 2015 Ahsham Gaumee Film Award for Best Cinematography 2016 Baiveriyaa 2020 Andhirikan Co-produced with Ali Seezan 2023 Kaushi Sinhala film 2023 Jokaru 2023 Zoya 2024Saaya 2024 Kamanaa
Television Year Title Producer Cinematographer Notes 2008 Soora Television series; 5 episodes 2009 Mihithah Loabi Dheyshey Television series; 15 episodes 2010Magey Hithakee Hitheh Noon Hey? Digital release; 5 parts 2010Sirrun Hithaa Kulhelaafa Television series; 10 episodes 2012 Kaiveni Television series; 5 episodes 2012–2013 Adhives Eloaibah Gadharu Kuran Television series; 13 episodes 2019 Yes Sir Web series; 10 episodes 2021Avahteriya Web series; 9 episodes 2021Hatharu Manzaru Cinematographer for the segment "Fulhi" 2021Giridha Web series; 15 episodes 2022Dhoadhi Web series; 15 episodes 2022Hissu Web series; 3 episodes 2022Bahdhal Web series; 3 episodes 2023 Hayyaru Web series; 15 episodes 2024 Ereahfahu Web series; 15 episodes 2025 Imthihaan Web series; 10 episodes
Short film Year Title Producer Cinematographer Notes 2008 Dhanthura 2009 Seedhibe 2010 Loabeege Ninja 2010 Muhammaage Briefcase 2012 13 Ah Visnaa Dhehaas Nominated—Gaumee Film Award for Best Cinematography - Short FilmNominated—Maldives Film Award for Best Cinematography - Short Film 2012 Kidnap
Accolades Year Award Category Nominated work Result 2014 3rd Maldives Film Awards Best Cinematography Dhilakani Best Cinematography - Short Film 13 Ah Visnaa Dhehaas 2017 8th Gaumee Film Awards Best Cinematography Ahsham Best Cinematography - Short Film 13 Ah Visnaa Dhehaas
References