Showbiz Arabia: Mekky in UAE to promote his film

He’s considered one of Egypt’s brightest comedy stars, but Ahmad Mekky’s latest film has failed to make an impact on cinemagoers. Sameer Abu Al Neel, which was released in the UAE three weeks ago, has become the popular actor’s worst performing film at the UAE box office, failing to make it past the top five (in its first week of release, the movie was beaten by Iron Man 3, The Big Wedding, Go Goa Gone, and Welcome to the Punch).

So it comes as no surprise that the cast and crew of the film decided to visit the UAE last weekend to promote it through public appearances in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Mekky was joined by his co-star, Lebanese actress/singer Nicole Saba, director Amr Arafa and producer Mohammad Al Sobky. tabloid! caught up with the actor at a press conference in Dubai.

Q: Sameer Abu Al Neel centres around a character who takes it upon himself to influence the political views of the public. What made you take this sort of role on?

A: When you believe in an idea, you’re going to take the step and do it. And it’s an issue I feel very strongly about, because the problem we’re facing in Egypt right now is the issue of media not really having a conscience and just trying to influence people via making up news in order to put their own party or movement in a positive light. Unfortunately, in Egypt right now, people believe anything they hear. Media is highly influential, and it is worse than it is in the West, for example, because the rate of education amongst the majority of Egyptians is very low.

Q: Were you worried that you were straying from the usual comedic formula that your fans love you for?

A: I am not worried about taking on new ideas. Because the script was tackling a serious issue affecting the country right now, there was a need for the comedy to be subtle. Because I would say the genre is political rather than comedy. And this was essential in order to get the point across. I wouldn’t create comedy just for the point of it.

Q: Some have said that your role in this film is probably smaller than any other…

A: I love how Hollywood operates; how established actors are willing to appear in a tiny role just because the script is good. I don’t believe that an actor’s role should be huge all of the time. In fact, it shows that you are confident in your abilities if you are willing to choose the role over how much camera time you get.

Q: Would you look into doing any other genres?

A: I am open to anything that has a good script. Action? Why not? After all, La Tarago Wala Esteslam had a bit of action in it.

Q: Finally, what else are you up to?

A: I am continuing to promote Sameer Abu Al Neel, and then I also have some music coming out. Plus, there’s my Ramadan TV show.

Q: Al Kabeer Awi Season 3 will air this Ramadan. We hear Mohammad Al Sobky makes an appearance.

A: Yeah, he loves guest starring for 5 minutes in his films and he’s doing the same in this show. We’ve also got appearances from some other big names which I am very excited about.

NIBs

Fans are going to be a huge part of Nancy Ajram’s upcoming music video.

According to news sources, the Lebanese singer has teamed up with director Walid Naseef for a project that will see fans on her social media channels become part of the video via Facebook posts, tweets and even video snippets.

Nancy said: “Social media is very important and it is important to remain close to our fans, especially when you realise the amount of love and devotion they hold towards you!”

This will be the first vid from her upcoming yet-to-be-titled album, scheduled to come out this summer.

Meanwhile, in another recent interview, the singer revealed that she is a Bieleber.

“He’s young, modern, hip and cool,” Nancy said of Canadian singer Justin Bieber. “He’s totally fashionable when it comes to his style of singing or dressing! I would totally collaborate with him if I had the chance!”

ARABIA ONLINE

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-Egyptian actress Sabrine makes her feelings clear after meeting the Egyptian minister of defence.

“My new MJK Heartbeats CLUB Remix is out in a few days! Eight minutes of dance music, just in time for the weekend! ”

-Lebanese singer Haifa Wehbe showcases her new remix by Noor Q & Lenz Garcia.