Two Egyptian movie legends, Omar Sharif and Adel Imam, are starring in a new movie that addresses sectarian tensions. In “Hassan and Morcos,” Adel Imam plays a Christian and Omar Sherif a Muslim who struggle against the extremists within each of their religious communities. As incidents of sectarian violence occur at a seemingly weekly rate, this is a promising and relevant topic–although I fear the film tows the government’s tired “national unity” line, ignoring real grievances and power imbalances. The trailer does show some pretty dramatic and realistic depictions of sectarian riots.
Of course, the film has been deemed “controversial.” Imam, a Muslim, has been criticized for playing a Christian onscreen. The Al Ahram Hebdo reports that a few geniuses have started a Facebook group entitled “Call to Muslims: Boycott the Christian Adel Imam.”
Sadly this was one of the worst films I’ve seen in a long time. I don’t think the film tows the government’s national unity line to the hilt despite the heavy and often cloying symbolism in that direction, since as you mention it does also try to show (if cackhandedly) the kind of sectarian violence that takes place in Egypt. But the film is far too lacking in subtlety, interesting dialogue or a convincing storyline to merit any kind of serious discussion. Worth watching only for Adel Imam’s son’s performance and the occasional funny bits.
Thanks for the warning, NN.
by trying to highlight the absurdity of religious bigotry and extremism the film ends up being ridiculous itself rather than a wry depiction of a deepening problem that the government is more than happy to let foster. mohammed imam’s facial expressions steal the show though.