Egyptian cinema underwent a transitional period in the 1990s.
A new generation of directors, writers and actors was drawn to creating more innovative, serious pieces of work. In particular, there was more use of comedy as a tool, not only to entertain, but also to observe and critique society in more nuanced ways.
It was a time when creatives explored social issues (particularly those facing the Egyptian middle classes) through stories that led to the country's state during the 1990s. These pull from both historical incidents and contemporary issues.
Ranging from dark comedies to biographies, here are The National’s Here are eight movies from the 1990s that you definitely shouldn’t miss.
Supermarket, 1990
Led by one of Egypt's most renowned directors, the late Mohamed Khan , Supermarket has received praise for delving into the social and economic transformations the nation experienced upon entering a new decade.
The story follows Ramzi, a principled musician who works as a pianist at a luxury hotel. The film delves into Ramzi's troubled marriage and issues with his in-laws. The film is a nuanced portrait of Egyptian society at a time of great change. It shows how art, culture and social class were transforming in the light of growing capitalist pursuits.
Iskandria Kaman wa Kaman (Alexandria Again and Forever), 1990
The third instalment of renowned director Youssef Chahine 's Alexandria Trilogy, the film is a blend of genres and an exploration of identity.
Based on Chahine’s own life, the story explores the experiences of ageing film director Yehia Eskandarany, played by Chahine himself, as he looks back at his career after a violent argument with his favourite actor and friend, Amr.
Yehia’s whole life, his love for his country and for cinema in particular, shifts as he tries to understand the root of the breakdown with his long-time collaborator through the lens of his career.
The film is a feat in storytelling, where the non-linear narrative combines elements of romance, comedy, political drama, bold musical numbers and dances that act as an extension of Yehia's emotional state and aspirations.
Kit Kat, 1991
The comedy-drama follows Sheikh Hosni, a blind man living in the Al-Kit Kat neighbourhood in the slums of Giza, Egypt.
Played by the renowned actor Mahmoud Abdel Aziz, Sheikh lives with his elderly mother and frustrated son Youssef who dreams of moving to Europe.
Despite Sheikh’s blindness, he refuses to accept his disability as a limitation to his dreams of riding a motorcycle. In order to cope with his less than desirable financial circumstances and his strained relationship with his son, Sheikh spends his time using drugs and learning the affairs and secrets of the people in his neighbourhood.
The film is notable for its portrayal of the everyday struggles faced by inhabitants of the slums in Egypt.
Shahateen wa Noubalaa (Beggars and Noblemen), 1991
Based on the novel Proud Beggars by the Egyptian-French writer Albert Cossery, the film is set in Cairo during the final days of the Second World War.
It follows the story of two men who are intricately connected to one another. Gohar, a former university professor, has killed a young prostitute in an empty brothel. Nour El-Din is the police inspector who has been assigned to investigate the murder.
In his pursuit of Gohar, the story unfolds the lives and struggles of both men while depicting a powerful portrayal of Egyptian society during a significant historical period that dramatically changed the country’s future.
Al-irhab wal Kabab (Terrorism and the Kebab), 1992
Starring the Arab world’s most celebrated actors and comedians such as Adel Emam , this film is a satirical take on bureaucracy and social issues in Egypt that felt relevant across the region.
The story revolves around Ahmed, a frustrated family man, played by Emam, visiting the Mogamma, a large and complex government building in Cairo, in order to obtain a school transfer for his children.
However, after days of unsuccessful attempts to navigate the overly complicated bureaucratic process, Ahmed unwittingly becomes entangled in a series of events and finds himself in control of the whole building and organisation. The film uses humour to critic inefficiency and corruption.
Harb al Farawla (Strawberry War) 1994
This dark comedy delves into the concepts of joy and affluence via the experiences of three individuals whose paths cross due to an extramarital relationship.
In the show, Thabet, portrayed by Sami El Adl, is a affluent entrepreneur who falls into depression following the loss of his sole heir. Struggling to find purpose in his existence, he encounters Hamama, enacted by Mahmoud Hemeida—a destitute vendor of fruits—who is betrothed to Farawla, skillfully played by celebrated actress Yousra, a single mother selling flowers alongside her young boy.
When Thabet’s attorney proposes offering the pair cash and a house to "treat" his client's depression, they end up spending more time together. This leads Thabet to become fascinated with Farawla, much to Hamama's dismay.
Renowned for its unconventional narrative, magical storytelling components, and its grim comedic touch, the movie has received praise for tackling significant social concerns in a distinctive manner.
Nasser 56, 1996
Featuring the renowned late actor Ahmed Zaki In one of his standout performances, this historical movie zeroes in on a crucial juncture in Egyptian history that had significant repercussions for the Arab world and beyond.
The nationalization of the Suez Canal stands as one of the most significant and perilous times during Egypt’s presidency under the late President. Gamal Abdel Nasser 's (played by Zaki) time in office. The story is told from an Egyptian and nationalist point of view, exploring Nasser’s relationship with the Revolutionary Command Council, ministers, his office, as well as his wife, children, and father during this time.
Arak al-Balah (Date Wine), 1998
Set in a remote upper Egyptian village, cut off from the rest of the world, a mysterious stranger arrives and lures men away with promises of wealth and opportunity in far away lands. Only two men remain behind – an elderly, disabled grandfather and his grandson, Ahmed, whose ambition is to climb the tallest palm tree in the village.
When some of the men eventually return from their trip, they are different – bitter and hardened by the outside world and resentful of Ahmed’s cherished position in the village.
The film explores themes that were becoming more prevalent in the zeitgeist of the time, such as migration, tradition, and masculinity.
