Do we ever truly know ourselves? A masterpiece of Arab cinema by legendary Egyptian filmmaker Youssef Chahine, “The Choice” is revered for its profound ability to distill the political through the personal. Co-scripted by Nobel Laureate in Literature, author Naguib Mahfouz, this murder mystery is a deep dive into the human psyche, exploring the social […]
Continue readingThe Other Cheek
Great central performances drive this tale of guilt, repentance, and revenge. After Nashaat’s daughter is viciously attacked by his neighbors’ dog, he is indignant to hear claims she provoked the attack. Reading the accusatory article aloud to his manipulative ex-wife leads to a heated confrontation, leaving the incandescent father with no choice but to take […]
Continue readingWard’s Henna Party
Halima,a Sudanese refugee woman, living in Egypt, works painting henna at weddings. A typical day preparing a bride for her wedding in one of Giza’s popular neighborhoods takes an unexpected turn when Halima’s 7-year-old daughter, Ward, decides to explore the vicinity.
Continue readingSunday at Five
Hadil is at a turning point in her life. Her hesitation and selfishness, that she is well aware of, make her unstoppable when it comes to getting what she wants. Even if it comes at the expense of others. Director Sherif El Bendary cleverly plays with the wall between characters and the audience in this […]
Continue readingLuxor
For her second feature, director Zeina Durra installs her camera in the intoxicating historic city of Luxor, Egypt. British aid worker Hana (a bewitching Andrea Riseborough) returns to Luxor, escaping the intensity of her humanitarian work treating victims of the war on the Jordanian- Syrian border. On a boat in the ancient city, Hana encounters a […]
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