Following a stellar performance in the box-office hit 6, 7, 8 — for which she won the best actress award at the 2010 Dubai International Film Festival — Bushra is back on the big screen in coming weeks thanks to the release of her new film, Gedo Habiby.
Although 2011 was a quiet year for the Egyptian actress and singer in terms of public appearances, Bushra was hard at work completing this latest project, where she stars alongside legendary actors Mahmoud Yasseen and Lubna Abdul Aziz, as well as WAMA's Ahmad Fahmy.
In the comedy, Bushra plays a young woman who lives abroad and returns to Egypt to receive her family inheritance, where she gets embroiled in plenty of hilarious situations at the hands of her grandfather (played by Yasseen). Part of the film was shot in London — a place not strange to Bushra, as she was born and raised in the UK — and a couple of songs are due to be released soon to support the film's release.
When not performing, Bushra enjoys a day job as a successful businesswoman. She recently became executive producer and deputy CEO of Dollar Film — New Century Production.
Here, she updates tabloid! on what she has been up to.
You recently entered the world of producing. What has that been like?
It is something I am really enjoying. Production makes you look at the world of showbiz in a different light. It is no longer strange to be acting and producing at the same time — just look at the likes of Tom Cruise, Sarah Jessica Parker and Drew Barrymore, for example.
I love the fact that I could appear as an actress in one film a year, but producing four to five films for others also during the year. It is nice to be part of other artists' success as well.
Do you ever worry that the business side of things will distract you from your main passion?
Not really, as I am able to combine everything. In these current times in the region, it is something that is possible.
However, if at some point I find that producing takes me away from the performing arts — after all, I am an actress and singer — then production will have to be side-lined.
Tell us about Gedo Habiby. It was originally meant to be released last year, right?
Yes, it was originally due for release in Eid Al Adha, but the delay was due to two reasons. Firstly, the director, Ali Edrees, wanted to ensure that the film was completed the proper way. He did not want to skimp on the technical side of things. He wanted to take his time.
Secondly, the production company decided that Amn Dawlat [starring Hamada Helal] was more suitable to Eid Al Adha, as it is a proper light family movie suitable for families and children. The theme of Gedo Habiby means that it does not need to be tied to any sort of season.
You star alongside an amazing duo...
It really does combine generations. It's important for films to feature both the legendary stars of our time as well as the young faces. It was so exciting to star alongside the amazing Lubna Abdul Aziz, and Mahmoud Yasseen — oh my! This is his 175th film, so it gives me a great honour to be part of his 175th film!
Your last film, 6,7,8, has become one of the most successful movies of recent times. What do you think was the key to its success?
I am so proud to be part of that film. 6, 7, 8 explores current situations in the region. We're not the first to have done this, but we were part of spreading an important message [the film explored the topic of the abuse of women in Egypt].
It achieved some of the best box office results, and it is now currently being shown in Spain, Brazil, Sweden, Denmark and the US. It is being ordered everywhere — by cinemas, TV stations or for private functions.
It is great to see Egyptian cinema and artists make a name for themselves abroad. It means so much more for Arab cinema than just an Arab artist taking a part in a Hollywood movie.
Marwa bares all
Marwa has landed herself in yet another scandal. The Lebanese singer and actress has caused a media storm after a video of her allegedly stripping naked was leaked on the internet.
The incident is thought to have happened on the set of Ahasees, an Egyptian film that was released two years ago. Although the undressing was not part of a scene, Marwa was caught on camera changing her clothes, seemingly not bothered about undressing in front of the crew.
It is not clear why the video has just been leaked now. However, rumours are rife that the controversial artist will now be banned from entering Egypt — the country where she made a name for herself. Could this be the end of her career?
Tayem and Deema call it quits
Another day, another celeb couple split. And of all occasions, Tayem Hassan and Deema Baya'ah decide to announce their divorce in Valentine's week.
The Syrian actors have confirmed that they have gone their separate ways after ten years together. In a joint statement Hassan and Deema revealed that they split on amicable terms for the sake of their two children.
"We are not interested in causing any problems for our two wonderful children," they said. "We would appreciate if you could respect our privacy with regard to our personal lives."
Yousuf and Nicole to unite on screen?
Someone needs to tell Yousuf Al Khal that the key to a successful marriage is not to put down his other half at every media opportunity. The Lebanese actor — who was virtually unknown in the showbiz world before getting hitched to Nicole Saba — has told MBC that his wife is not a good cook.
"Nicole only knows how to make a few dishes," he said. "But I am sure that she will start to learn very soon."
On another note, Al Khal told the network the couple have been offered a number of projects to star in together and are "currently exploring options".
Arabia online
"The world lost a true legend. This is so heart breaking. She was loved despite her troubles. This is surreal :( RIP Whitney Houston."
— Lebanese singer Haifa Wehbe
"One of my biggest musical / lyrical inspirations would have turned 66 today — Rest In Eternal Peace Bob Marley. Sadly, there is still so much trouble in our world..."
— Syrian-American rapper Omar Offendum
