Laylat Al-Jumea
Laylat Al-Jumea

Movie spotlight

Laylat Al-Jumea

1945
Movie
95 min
Arabic

Uncle Abdel Fattah forces his nephew Anwar to marry so that he does not deprive him of the inheritance. Anwar does marry, but one day he goes with his friend to a cabaret and meets Tahia, the dancer, who brings him back home drunk. The uncle comes to confirm his nephew's marriage and finds Tahia, who claims that she is his wife. When his real wife appears, he introduces her as his friend's wife.

Insights

Director: Tawfik ChahineGenres: Drama, Romance

Plot Summary

A young woman navigates societal expectations and her own desires in early 20th-century Egypt. She falls in love with a man deemed unsuitable by her family, leading to a conflict between tradition and personal happiness. The story explores themes of social class, arranged marriages, and the struggle for independence.

Critical Reception

As one of the foundational films of Egyptian cinema, 'Laylat Al-Jumea' is highly regarded for its early exploration of social issues and its influential performances. It is often cited as a significant work in the career of Faten Hamama and a testament to the burgeoning Egyptian film industry of the era.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its compelling drama and exploration of societal norms.

  • Recognized for strong early performances from its leading actors.

  • Considered a landmark film in the history of Egyptian cinema.

Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this film is not readily available due to its age and regional focus.

Fun Fact

This film marked an early significant role for Faten Hamama, who would go on to become one of the most iconic actresses in Arab cinema.

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