Alexandria... Why?

Alexandria... Why? is a captivating historical drama film released in 1979. Renowned Egyptian director Youssef Chahine took the helm to deliver this intense and emotionally charged film that contrasts personal lives with the broader strokes of history. Such was the intensity and depth of the film that it went on to win the Silver Bear at the 29th Berlin International Film Festival. The movie stars celebrated actors Naglaa Fathi, Ahmed Zaki, and Farid Shawqi, who brilliantly exhibit the flavors of Egyptian cinema of the late '70s.

Playing the backdrop of the film is the bustling city of Alexandria during the time of World War II, offering a rich historical context. The narrative of Alexandria... Why? primarily revolves around a young Egyptian student, Yehia, portrayed convincingly by charismatic actor Ahmed Zaki. The character epitomizes the dreams and aspirations of youth, with a desire to become a filmmaker, which subtly reflects director Youssef Chahine's own beginnings in cinema.

Diving into the multilayered plot, we see the priority of Yehia's personal ambitions over the wider concerns of the tumultuous socio-political environment around him. Throughout the movie, viewers are encapsulated in the enthralling journey Yehia embarks on to pursue his dream of movie-making despite all the odds. His passion delivers a positive message of perseverance and determination to cinema enthusiasts.

Adding to the overall depth of the movie is the enchanting female lead, Naglaa Fathi, who plays the role of a Jewish girl who seeks shelter amidst the World War II uncertainty. Fathi's powerful performance reflects the vulnerability coupled with raw courage, delivering a multilayered persona that adds to the narrative's complexity.

Farid Shawqi also contributes to this tapestry of dynamic characters with his significant role. Displaying his seasoned acting skills, Shawqi beautifully portrays the portrayal of his character, enduring the societal norms and challenges the times posed.

Apart from the central characters, Alexandria… Why? intertwines different storylines and characters, representing everything from the nonchalant bourgeoisie and the conflicted foreign soldiers to the street performers and the marginalized communities, many facets of Alexandrian life have been touched through these characters and their interwoven narratives.

The film distinguishes itself through its intense dramatic sequences, which allows the audience to experience the turmoils that the characters endure in such a fractious time. The sheer emotion plays out fantastically on screen, allowing the audience to effortlessly connect with each character and their strife, thanks to the commendable performances from the ensemble cast.

Chahine's unfiltered portrayal of homosexuality, an unconventional subject for the period, underscores his bold and creative storytelling abilities. This surpasses the narrow confines of the society's prevalent norms and speaks volumes of the filmmaker's courage and novelty.

The art direction by Salah Marei is notable, creating an authentic portrayal of the time, attire, and locales. Meanwhile, cinematography by Abdel Aziz Fahmy paints a mesmerizingly realistic picture of Alexandria, leaving the viewers spellbound. The film also boasts an evocative and memorable musical score by Kamal El Tawil, which brilliantly captures the mood and essence of each scene and amplifies the overall cinematic experience.

In conclusion, Alexandria… Why? is a seriously enveloping experience. Throughout its runtime, it remains etched between personal desires and nationalistic sentiments, drawing an artistic line between dreams and reality. It provides an insightful depiction of Egyptian society at a historic crossroads, evoking a mix of nostalgia, romance, and socio-political upheaval. Alexandria… Why? serves as an important cultural artifact of Egypt's cinema, which continues to inspire and intrigue audiences worldwide.