Since the trailer’s release in July, the film Al-Molhed (The Atheist, 2024) has sparked media criticism and stirred controversy on social media before its release, with many calling for a boycott over alleged islamophobia. The film is produced by Ahmed El-Sobky, directed by Mando El-Adl, written by Ibrahim Eissa, starring Ahmed Hatem, Shereen Reda, Mahmoud Hemida, Hussein Fahmy, Sabreen, Tara Emad, Naglaa Badr, and others. A tweet on X, formerly known as Twitter, states, “The attack on Islam continues in various forms. Al-Molhed is part of a coordinated effort to distort Islamic principles and values. We are living in troubling times, and the end is near. Let us fear God and hold steadfastly to our faith. May God grant us all a good ending.” Al-Molhed explores the issues of religious extremism and atheism, namely their impact on youth through a dramatic narrative. It tells the story of a devout Salafi Muslim family, whose father figure—played by Mahmoud Hemida—harshly enforces religious practices on his son, Yehia—played by Ahmed Hatem—including prayer and reading the Quran. This rigid approach drives the son, played by actor Ahmed Hatem, to rebel against these beliefs and…
