Over 30 shows later, the Ramadan marathon has left us quite literally catching our breath. From the heartache to families not resembling anything to…family – a pause had to be made before reverting to the art of TV.
To keep you company during Eid, here’s a roundup of films to detox from the worlds of Mohab Tarek, Mariam Naoum, and many more established filmmakers that perfectly aim their words into our hearts like daggers. Recovery is indeed a long road, so let’s dive in.
Ana La Habibi
While not a fresh story, “Ana La Habibi,” starring Karim Fahmy and Yasmine Raeis, is an underrated romance when it comes to the star-crossed lovers trope.
Paired with great acting, the Fairouz song selection and having each ‘chapter’ of the characters’ romance named after one of the icon’s tracks, creates an unforgettable layer to the film.
The train ride sequences and picturesque scenes of Egypt’s beauty will make you feel like you traveled without leaving your couch during Eid.
Fasel Men El Lahazat El Lazeeza
A good laugh means there’s a good chance Egyptian director Ahmed Gendy is behind it – and last year’s hit, “Fasel Men El Lahazat El Lazeeza” is no exception.
Starring winning duo Hesham Maged and Hannah El Zahed, this whimsical comedy will quite literally transport you to a whole better mood as you follow Saleh (Maged) and Doreya (El Zahed) as they meet their, let’s say, ‘better versions’ from a parallel world. It’s a film that will add a smile to your mornings! If you know, you know.
Shekko
Calling all bros, this recommendation is for you. An action-packed film, “Shekko”, starring Amr Youssef and Mohamed Mamdouh among many stars, captivates you from start to finish as you follow the buddies or ‘shekkos’ from one great heist to the next.
Layered with the perfect comedic balance and a villainous character (Queen Youssra), you can’t go wrong with this one.
Maqsoom
Now we know we said we’re detoxing from Ramadan shows but ‘relapses’ happen. If “80 Bako” was your favorite show from the season, then you must go back to watching “Maqsoom.”
The film screams Kawthar Younis’ signature of vibrant colors and strong female energy, which was emblazoned in the Ramadan hit.
Bringing together veteran actors like Laila Eloui, Shereen Reda, and Sama Ibrahim, the trio takes us back to the ’90s and has us wanting to know why their band broke up. Wholesome is the only way to describe it.
El Hawa Sultan
It’s a long-standing debate across the world whether men and women can actually be ‘just friends’ – nothing more. Nora Ephron pretty much spearheaded this conversation in cinema with the iconic 80s “When Harry Met Sally.”
But now, the Middle East may have gotten its take on the conversation with Egypt’s “El Hawa Sultan” starring Menna Shalaby, Ahmed Dawood, and more.
With an honest script and spectacular acting, this one should be on your Eid watch list. If not for these reasons, then definitely for Bahaa Sultan’s earworm – ‘Ana Mn Gherak.’
El Hareefa 1 & 2
Perfect for all family members, “El Hareefa” stars Nour El Nabawy as he goes through a major life-changing experience that leads him to move to a new neighborhood and a whole other school – but the soccer team becomes his lifeline.
Even if you’re not a soccer fan or do get the sport, you’ll find yourself cheering Maged’s team (El Nabawy) and will love the banter between the cast, including Ahmed Ghozzi, Kozbara, and more. And in bonus news, the sequel, “El Remontada,” is available to stream now on Yango Play – so you can pull a double feature.
So, grab your popcorn, get started and let us know what’s your go-to Eid film.
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