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Must Watch: 3 Classic Egyptian Short Films Based on Tawfiq al-Hakim Stories Online

April 23, 2020
Three classic Egyptian short films are available online, starring Faten Hamama (left) and featuring the wtories of Tawfiq al-Hakim (right). Image credits unknown.

When one of Egypt’s most prominent playwrights is paired with one of Egypt’s most beloved actresses, it is a sure way to create silver screen magic.  Tawfik al-Hakim was an Egyptian writer and visionary, and to this day he is regarded as one of the best playwrights in Egyptian history. His legendary literary works re-defined Egyptian drama and theatre and his storytelling intelligently tied in social and cultural issues of early 20th century Egypt. Al-Hakim has written a number of notable stories and plays, some of which include Ahl el Kahf (The People of the Cave,1933), Shahrazad (Scheherazade 1934 – based on One Thousand and One Nights) and Ughniyyat al-Mot (Death Song, 1945). During the golden age of Egyptian cinema, Faten Hamama was regarded as one of the most iconic leading ladies of Egypt and the region’s silver screen. Throughout the mid-to-late 20th century, Hamama proved time and again the necessity and strength of the Egyptian actress through her various challenging roles.  The actress introduced an unprecedented and unparalleled level of emotion and complexity to her roles, offering audiences a deeper level of connection to the characters portrayed on screen. …


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