The race for the best movie this Eid is over and a certain Mohammad Ramadan has emerged victorious. The 25-year-old — who first caught viewers’ attention with his role in 2009’s Ehky Ya Shahrazade (starring Mona Zaki) — can celebrate, as his film, Kalb Al Assad, shot to the top of the Egyptian Eid Al Fitr box-office.
To date, Kalb Al Assad has brought in EGP11.5 million (Dh6 million), making it the one of the most successful Arab films this year so far. The thriller brought in 10 million more than its closest competitor, Alby Dalili.
Speaking of the production, Ramadan said: “It’s fantastic to see Kalb Al Assad being successful. A lot of work went into the movie, and we’re all incredibly proud that the fans enjoyed it.”
All top five films of this festive season are yet to make it onto UAE cinema screens, and many of them are yet to have a confirmed release date. In the meantime, here’s what to look forward to.
Kalb Al Assad
Egyptian actor Mohammad Ramadan has turned himself into one of the country’s brightest stars… impressive, considering his big screen debut was less than five years ago. This thriller — which was written by Ramadan himself — revolves around a young man who is kidnapped by the circus as a child. Growing up, he gets accustomed to training lions, but dreams of escaping and building a fortune. His opportunity comes when the police recruit him for an undercover mission. Directed by Karim Sobky.
Revenue to date: EGP11.5m ($1.6m)
UAE release: TBC
Alby Dalili
Starring Sameh Houssam, Mai Kassab, Ahmad Zahir, this comedy tells the story of a police officer who moves from his small village in Upper Egypt to the North Coast’s Marina for a new job. Facing a culture shock, he struggles to deal with life in the liberal town, resulting in hilarious encounters.
Revenue to date: EGP1.9m ($284,000)
UAE release: TBC
Nazareyet A’ameety
It has been panned by critics, but Nazareyet A’ameety made it into the third position of the Eid box-office. This could be down to star Hassan Al Raddad’s success during Ramadan with Adam w Gameela; it’s a shame to see him take on such a ridiculous role here. He plays a famous talk show host, who decides to explore other options in his life, with assistance by his aunt (played by Lebleba).
Revenue to date: EGP1.1m ($170,000)
UAE release: September 2013
Tom W Jimmy
Starring Hany Ramzy, this film directed by Akram Farid revolves around a mentally disabled person who battles between his physical adult state and his child-like mind. Not politically correct, and film critics have slated it. Also stars Jana and Tetyana.
Revenue to date: EGP891,777 ($127,000)
UAE release: TBC
Al Princeesa
Ola Ganem stars in this drama, which revolves around Egypt’s cabaret industry and its seedy illegal drug trade. Randa Al Beheirey and Zia Marghany also star.
Revenue to date: EGP620,890 ($88,000)
UAE release: TBC
News in brief
Nicole Saba has finally popped. The Lebanese actress/singer — who’s married to actor Yousuf Al Khal — has given birth to a baby girl, and she has been named after her mother.
Following the birth, the 39-year-old posted on Twitter: “Welcome to Nicole Al Khal — thank you God, this feels amazing.”
A number of celebs have taken to Twitter to congratulate the new mum, including Tamer Hosny.
“Congratulations to Nicole Saba and Youssef Al Khal on their first born, Nicole. May God protect them,” he said.
Rami Ayach is off the market! The Lebanese singer is set to marry his fiancee of one year, designer Dalida Said, in a star-studded ceremony later on this month.
The cat was let out of the bag by Layalina editor-in-chief, Sossi Wartanian, who posted her wedding invitation on Twitter. It reads: “Ramez and Aida A. Ayach, and Faissal and Haifa Said request the pleasure of your company to celebrate the marriage of their son and daughter, Ramy and Dalida on Saturday 24 August at Pavilion Royal.”
It goes on to request that guests not take photos during the event.
Arabia Online
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